Sever’s disease, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a fairly common ankle condition that affects growing children.  When the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and muscles, which is the case for most people in their youth, the potential for strain in that area exists.  If the child is especially active, this can lead to swelling and strain on the overstretched tendons.  Sever’s disease won’t typically cause any long-term foot damage.  The best remedy is to simply take it easy.  If your child is exhibiting signs of heel pain, make sure to have him/her rest.  If the symptoms persist, consult with a podiatrist to make sure there aren’t any other problems.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Advanced Care Podiatry. 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 Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.