Clinical and Diagnostic Characteristics of Calcaneal Apophysitis: A Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis

Calcaneal apophysitis is an overuse injury in pediatric patients that causes heel pain and reduction in function. The aim of this study is to explore this condition and offer medical insight into its presentation and symptomatology, along with current treatment options.

We explored PubMed/Medline for studies involving calcaneal apophysitis in pediatric patients. The search included all articles published from database inception until June 1, 2021. We only included articles published in English. Clinical information and demographics extracted from the reported studies were analyzed and assessed.

Only 28 studies met our criteria, with a total of 1,362 cases. Of the cases reported, 973 affected boys (71.4%). Presentation was bilateral in 589 cases (43.2%) and unilateral in 433 cases (31.8%). Radiographic imaging was used for the diagnosis of 358 cases (26.3%). All reported treatment modalities were conservative, and these included physical therapy and rest, kinesiotherapy and taping, and orthotic devices. A total of 733 cases (53.7%) reported improved outcomes,32 cases (2.3%) reported no improvement, and the remainder of cases did not report prognostic outcomes (44%).

Calcaneal apophysitis is an overuse disease commonly found in the pediatric population. Educating parents and coaches with regard to its symptomatology, etiology, and treatment is essential to diagnose the condition earlier and provide better outcomes.