What is Sever's Disease?

Sever's Disease, also known as Calcaneal Apophysitis, is a common condition that causes pain in the back of the heel. It most commonly affects children aged 8-13 years, particularly active children who have recently experienced a growth spurt.

The condition occurs when bones grow quicker than the muscles can keep up, creating tightness in the calf. This calf tightness then irritates the growth plate (immature part of the bone), causing pain. Sever’s Disease is more common in boys than girls, and pain is evident in the heel during and after activity, sometimes causing children to walk on their tiptoes to relieve pain.

What are the Risk Factors?

Several factors can increase a child's risk of developing Sever's Disease, including: ● high activity levels

● recent increase in activity

● rapid growth spurt

● footwear that offers little support; and

● foot posture (flat feet)

What treatments can assist?

Fortunately, several treatments can alleviate the symptoms of Sever's Disease. The primary aim of treatment is to reduce the pressure on the growth plate at the back of the heel by:

● strapping the foot

● adding in heel lifts (can relieve pain temporarily)

● orthotics (longer-term option by addressing foot posture)

● wearing supportive footwear

● icing the affected area for 10 minutes at a time after or during activity ● stretches and massage can relieve tension in the calf muscles.

With time, symptoms often reduce after high periods of growth cease.

Where to seek treatment?

If your child is experiencing symptoms of Sever's Disease, it's essential to seek medical advice from a podiatrist who can guide you towards the most effective treatment options for your specific situation. A podiatrist can also provide advice on how to reduce your child's risk of developing the condition in the first place.

At Fit Foot Podiatry, we specialise in treating children's foot and ankle conditions, including Sever's Disease. Our team of experienced podiatrists can diagnose and treat the condition and provide expert advice on how to reduce your child's risk of developing it in the future.

Don't let Sever's Disease impact your child's active lifestyle - schedule an appointment with Fit Foot Podiatry today.

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