Young athletes can be active indoors and out in competitive sports all year. Many of these youth athletes have found that heel pain is a common problem. “just another part of the game.”The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends that children who complain of heel pain should see a doctor immediately. It could indicate a serious problem with their feet.

Dr. Karl Collins DPM, FACFAS is a St. Louis-area ankle and foot surgeon. He says children as young as 6-14 years old experience heel pain, because their feet are growing and the heel bone develops. “As children become more active in sports, they increase their risk for growth plate injuries and subsequent heel pain,”Collins agrees. This is particularly true during school years, when surgeons notice an increase in high-school and middle-school athletes suffering from heel pain.

“New bone forms in an area behind the heel, known as the growth plate, and cartilage is vulnerable to severe inflammation from strain or stress. With repeated stresses and strains from overactivity, the heel becomes very painful,” Collins explains.

Collins states that growth plate trauma is the most common cause of heel pain in young adults. However, it can be difficult for doctors to diagnose the condition. Collins cautions parents that children with pain in their heels or in the bottom of their feet should consult their doctor immediately. The condition is diagnosed by foot and ankle surgeons who examine the foot and leg of the child and sometimes take imaging tests to rule any other possible causes, such as tendonitis, bursitis, or fractures.

Most cases of mild to moderate heel pain can usually be treated with shoe inserts that reduce the impact on the heel, antiinflammatory medication, stretching, and physical therapy. In extreme cases, the ankle and foot may need to be immobilized with a cast. Sometimes, surgery is necessary.

Young people can experience heel pain after treatment. This is because the growth plate continues to form until age 14 or 15. You can reduce the chance of recurrence by wearing well-constructed shoes that provide support, and avoiding spiked shoes on hard surfaces. Young athletes should avoid any competition that is beyond their abilities.

FootPhysicians.com provides more information on children’s heel pain and helps you find a foot-and-ankle surgeon in your area.

The pace of life today is rapid. People can check their kids’ soccer scores on the phone, while also sending emails to work with the help of digital technology. Consumers can expect the same conveniences and benefits from all businesses, except their insurance companies, thanks to the internet age. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.

Nearly two-thirds American households make less than 2002. Simply being insured does not suffice. It’s vital to understand how quickly and efficiently your insurance carrier pays claims. This is important for both financial and medical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, rising healthcare costs have forced employers to take cost-saving measures that are putting employees under greater financial pressure.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

Some people might have to wait as long as a month to receive their insurance payments. Many insurance companies are able to offer fast service because they have better technology and an understanding of today’s consumer needs. This is just one example. AflacIt is almost rare for insurance companies to offer policies that include claims processing, approval, and payment in a single day.

Fast payment policies are no longer luxury items of the past. It is a necessity in today’s world. It is vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay guarantee can be found on aflac.com/onedaypay.