Sever’s disease only affects children because it involves the growth plate in the heel, which is not fully developed in childhood. The growth plate is weaker than the rest of the bone, so continual pressure or injury can lead to swelling and irritation. Therefore, sports are a common cause for children developing Sever’s disease. Symptoms of this condition are swelling and redness of the heel, stiffness in the feet, limping, and heel pain. Symptoms tend to become worse during or after activities, then get better with rest. If a child participates in sporting activities, then develops Sever’s disease, they should wait until after being treated to resume those activities. If you think your child may have Sever’s disease, then it is recommended you bring them to a podiatrist in order to receive appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 one of our offices located in Cary, Apex, Dunn, and Benson, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.