Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysis, is a common cause of heel pain in active children ages 8 to 15. It is often described as an overuse injury from running and jumping activities that cause repetitive stress and pressure on the calcaneal growth plate. When adolescents have a growth spurt, their bone may exceed the growth of this muscle-tendon unit. This can cause the inability to stretch and maintain flexibility, as well as irritation, inflammation, and pain to ensue. This condition is diagnosed by an examination of the heel and a positive squeeze test that replicates the pain. Radiographic imaging can exclude other possible causes of such pain. Some treatment options for Sever’s disease consist of resting, stretching exercises, and wearing orthotics. If your child has Sever’s disease and is not responding to rest, it is suggested that you set up an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. 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 office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.