Apophysitis is inflammation of the growing areas of active young children. These problems are annoying, painful, and sometimes activity limiting, but not serious to the overall health of the child.
In the growing child, there are areas in their bones which are the sites of attachment for large muscle groups. These areas are called apophyses. When a child is very active, running and jumping will cause the muscles to contract which then pulls on this specialized growth area. With repetitive activity, the apophysis will become inflamed and painful. Initially, the pain will go away when the activity is stopped.

If the child continues to play through the pain, the pain may continue after the activity is stopped or it may occur with all activities, even those as simple as walking. Apophysitis is diagnosed by history and physical exam. The physical exam will reveal tenderness over the growth area itself without other abnormalities. Sometimes other diagnoses are considered and additional tests like an x-ray may be ordered. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, specialized equipment, ice, and sometimes rest. Fortunately, these maladies will go away once the growth area no longer exists; this happens when the child is done growing. Specific areas which are commonly seen include: