A common reason for heel pain among active children and young teenagers is Sever's disease. The medical name for this condition is calcaneal apophysitis, and it affects the growth plate in the heel. Sever’s disease occurs during a growth spurt in this age group, where additional pressure is put on the heel, especially during the beginning of a new sporting season. The heel bone can grow at a faster speed than the tendons and muscles, and this can cause the heel to become less flexible. Common symptoms many children experience with this ailment can include heel pain and swelling, often causing the need to temporarily stop the activity that caused the condition. There may be additional reasons why Sever’s disease can develop, consisting of having one leg that is shorter than the other, or if the arches are abnormal. Relief can begin by frequently elevating the affected foot which may alleviate some of the swelling, and performing specific stretches that can strengthen the foot. If your child is afflicted with Sever’s disease, it is strongly urged that a podiatrist is consulted who can offer correct treatment methods.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley 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 Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.