It could be many things, as you've offered no details as to the location of the pain and any objective symptoms. But, at his age, I would consider calcaneal apophysitis, a generally self-limiting inflammation of the growth plate of the heel of basically unknown cause. (Firmly squeeze the involved heel from the sides just below the insertion of the achilles tendon with your thumb and fingers and see if he yelps) Treatment is mainly of a supportive nature which includes resting and refraining from running and jumping for a while and possibly a protective heel cup and padding to elevate the heel somewhat. But it's premature to make such a diagnosis or offer such treatment recommendations. Have him see a podiatrist.
It goes without saying that excessive weight at any age can place unacceptable demands on the feet. In addition to seeing a doctor in regard to this present condition, I would think you should get some help in revising his eating habits so that a life-long battle with weight might possibly be avoided. |
