So what is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease or calcaneal apophysitis, is the most common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents and although the name can sound quite frightening or serious there have not been any long term complications associated with Sever’s disease.
It is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the growth plate of the heel. Growth plates are plates of cartilage found at the end of bones in growing children and it is from here that bones grow. Once a child has finished growing the growth plate turns to bone - before this time Sever’s disease can reoccur.
What causes Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease is caused by repetitive stress to the heel, this stress can be caused by activity or growth. Growth plates are weak areas within bone and so are vulnerable to external stresses from high impact activities such as running, football, gymnastics and dance for example. The achilles tendon inserts into the heel and during a growth spurt extra tension is transferred through calf muscle by growing bones.
Symptoms?
Sever’s disease causes pain in one or both heels underneath the heel bone. This pain is experienced when weight bearing. It can affect a child’s ability to participate in sporting activities and cause your child to walk with a limp. There is sometimes some mild swelling present.
How is Sever’s Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Sever's disease requires your Podiatrist to take a thorough and accurate medical history. Discussing in particular your child’s symptoms, physical activity and assessing your child’s footwear. Your Podiatrist will then carry out a thorough physical examination of the affected lower limb/s. This will include muscle strength and range of movement assessment. Pressure will be applied to your child’s heel at the sides and plantar aspect and this would be tender in a child with Sever’s disease.
Treatment?
Treatment for Sever’s Disease focuses on reducing pain and swelling through medication and other therapies. It may be necessary for your child to limit or cease physical activity until the pain resolves. This can typically take 3-8 weeks and it would be advisable to start a strength and conditioning programme before returning to sport to avoid injury.
Your Podiatrist may recommend/supply:-
Although the most common form of heel pain in children Sever’s is not the only possible cause so it is important to seek the assistance of a Podiatrist to ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment plan can be achieved.
