Sever’s disease is an overuse injury that affects the growth plate of the heel. It is fairly common in physically active children between the ages of 8 and 14. The main symptom of Sever’s disease is heel pain, which may be intermittent but often worsens with activity like running or jumping, upon waking, and when pressing on the back of the heel. You may also notice your child limping or walking on their tiptoes in order to avoid putting pressure on the heels. While it may be unpleasant, Sever’s disease is rarely serious. Treatments for Sever’s disease include resting and icing the foot, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief, wearing cushioned and supportive shoes, and stretching the feet. If your child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you take them to see a podiatrist. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.