Understanding Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is not an actual disease. Instead, it’s a growth-related condition that occurs when the growth plate in the heel, called the calcaneal apophysis, becomes inflamed. Sever’s disease is most common in children and adolescents between the ages of 8 and 15 and typically occurs during periods of rapid growth. If your child complains of heel pain during a growth spurt, Sever’s disease may be to blame.
What Causes This Condition?
The primary cause of Sever’s disease is the mismatch between bone growth and the tightness of the Achilles tendon. During periods of rapid growth, the heel bone may grow faster than the muscles and tendons, causing tension and stress on the growth plate. This condition is often associated with physical activities that involve repetitive stress on the heel, such as running, jumping, or sports like soccer and basketball. Other factors that can contribute to Sever’s disease include flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, and improper footwear with inadequate support. Understanding these contributing factors is crucial for effective prevention and management.
Exploring Sever’s Disease Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of Sever’s disease is vital for early intervention and preventing further discomfort for your child. Common signs include:
- Heel pain. Pain or tenderness in the back or bottom of the heel is the most common symptom associated with this condition.
- Limping or favoring one foot. Children with Sever’s disease may limp or avoid putting weight on the affected foot to alleviate pain.
- Redness or swelling. Inflammation of the growth plate can sometimes lead to redness or swelling of the affected heel.
- Discomfort during physical activity. Pain may intensify during or after activities like running or jumping, making it essential to observe your child’s behavior during and after physical exercise.
- Stiffness in the feet. Children suffering from Sever’s disease may experience stiffness in the feet, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Managing Sever’s Disease
While Sever’s disease is a self-limiting condition that resolves with time, there are several strategies you can adopt to manage your child’s heel pain and facilitate a quicker recovery. These include:
- Rest and activity modifications. Encourage your child to rest and reduce high-impact activities that exacerbate their heel pain. Swimming or cycling are good alternative exercises for the recovery period.
- Ice. Applying ice to the affected heel can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Wrap the ice in a soft cloth or towel to protect the skin, and apply it to the affected heel for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Stretching exercises. Incorporate gentle stretching exercises to improve calf muscles and Achilles tendon flexibility. Regular stretching can help reduce tension on the growth plate.
- Supportive footwear. Ensure your child wears supportive shoes with proper cushioning and arch support. Avoid shoes with inadequate support or excessive heel elevation.
- Orthotic inserts. Prefabricated or custom orthotic inserts or heel cups can provide additional support and reduce strain on the growth plate.
When to See a Professional
Though the above solutions may be adequate for mild cases of Sever’s disease, if your child’s heel pain persists or worsens, it’s time to see a professional. Our experienced team can provide a thorough examination and may recommend additional interventions such as physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications.
Sever’s disease is a common and usually self-limiting condition that can cause temporary discomfort for children during periods of rapid growth. By understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing appropriate management strategies, parents can play a crucial role in ensuring their child’s comfort and promoting a smooth recovery.