Sever’s Disease
Sever’s Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition that primarily affects active children and adolescents, especially during their growth spurts. This condition, while often alarming to parents, is not a disease in the traditional sense but rather a temporary and manageable heel pain condition.
Sever’s Disease is prevalent among young athletes who engage in repetitive physical activities, such as running, jumping, and other sports that involve high-impact movements. Understanding Sever’s Disease and addressing it early can make a significant difference in a child’s comfort and ability to continue participating in their favorite activities without pain.
Michigan Foot & Ankle specializes in diagnosing and treating Sever’s Disease with a focus on providing compassionate, age-appropriate care. We recognize the unique challenges that this condition presents for young patients, particularly those who are highly active. Our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each child, ensuring that they receive the most effective treatment while maintaining their quality of life. Our commitment is not only to relieve pain but also to educate and support families through the treatment process, promoting quick recovery and preventing future occurrences.
Understanding Sever’s Disease
Sever’s Disease occurs when the growth plate in the heel bone (calcaneus) becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. The calcaneal growth plate is the last portion of the heel bone to harden during a child’s development, making it particularly vulnerable to injury during periods of rapid growth.
This condition is most common in children between the ages of 8 and 14 and is frequently observed in those who participate in sports that require a lot of running or jumping. Sever’s Disease is often mistaken for other types of heel pain, but it is important to understand that Sever’s Disease is not permanent and can be effectively managed with appropriate care.
The inflammation and resulting pain are typically due to the repetitive stress and pressure placed on the heel during physical activities. As the tendons and muscles in the foot are still developing, the repetitive impact can irritate the heel’s growth plate. This irritation leads to the symptoms commonly associated with Sever’s Disease, making it difficult for children to remain active without discomfort.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The hallmark symptom of Sever’s Disease is heel pain, which often presents as tenderness in the heel area, particularly after physical activity. Other common symptoms include limping, difficulty walking or running, and swelling or redness in the heel. The pain may worsen during or after sports activities and improve with rest. Parents might notice their child favoring one foot over the other or avoiding certain activities altogether due to discomfort.
Diagnosing Sever’s Disease involves a comprehensive evaluation by our seasoned podiatrists, who will begin with a thorough physical examination. During the exam, our specialized team will check for tenderness in the heel and assess the range of motion. Your child’s medical history, including their activity level and any previous injuries, will also be reviewed to rule out other potential causes of heel pain.
In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions, such as fractures, and to assess the development of the heel bone. While X-rays are not always necessary, they can help provide a clearer picture of the heel’s structure and ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Conservative Treatment Options
The primary goal in treating Sever’s Disease is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation while allowing the growth plate to heal. Fortunately, most cases of Sever’s Disease can be effectively managed with conservative treatments, which include:
- Rest and Activity Modification: The first line of treatment involves reducing or temporarily stopping the activities that aggravate the condition. Encouraging children to take breaks from high-impact sports or activities can prevent further stress on the heel.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected heel several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing significant pain relief.
- Supportive Footwear: Wearing shoes that provide adequate arch support and cushioning is crucial in reducing stress on the heel. Proper footwear can help absorb shock and minimize pressure on the growth plate.
- Heel Pads: Inserting cushioned heel pads into the child’s shoes can provide additional support and help alleviate pain by reducing the impact on the heel during movement.
- Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises focused on the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help relieve tension in the heel and improve flexibility. Stretching also promotes better foot mechanics and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
Custom Orthotics and Supportive Devices
For children with more severe cases of Sever’s Disease or those with underlying biomechanical issues, custom orthotics and supportive devices can be an essential part of the treatment plan. Custom orthotics are designed to provide targeted support, reduce stress on the heel, and address any alignment issues that may be contributing to the condition. These devices can be particularly beneficial for children who have flat feet or high arches, as they help to redistribute pressure across the foot more evenly, thereby reducing strain on the heel.
Supportive devices, such as heel cups or cushioned insoles, can also be used to provide additional comfort and protection during physical activities. By cushioning the heel and improving overall foot alignment, these devices help to alleviate pain and support the healing process.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is an important component of recovery for children with Sever’s Disease. Our rehabilitation programs are tailored to the specific needs of young patients and focus on exercises and stretches that strengthen the calf muscles, improve flexibility, and correct any biomechanical issues that may have contributed to the condition. These programs are designed not only to treat the current symptoms but also to prevent future occurrences by promoting proper foot mechanics and overall musculoskeletal health.
Physical therapists work closely with each child to develop a personalized exercise regimen that includes stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises. These exercises are aimed at reducing strain on the heel, improving flexibility in the lower leg muscles, and enhancing the overall function of the foot and ankle. By addressing these factors, physical therapy can help children return to their normal activities with a reduced risk of recurrence.
Preventive Measures and Education
Preventing Sever’s Disease and promoting healthy foot development in active children requires a proactive approach. We provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of developing this condition. For example, we recommend that children wear well-fitted, supportive shoes during physical activities and take breaks from high-impact sports to give their feet time to rest and recover.
We also educate parents and caregivers on recognizing the early signs of Sever’s Disease and the importance of seeking prompt treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure that the condition does not lead to long-term foot problems. By staying informed and proactive, parents can help their children maintain healthy, active lifestyles without the burden of heel pain.
Contact Us
If your child is experiencing heel pain or any symptoms associated with Sever’s Disease, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our podiatrists. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing the condition effectively and preventing it from affecting your child’s active lifestyle.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services for Sever’s Disease, please contact us today to book your appointment by calling our Dearborn office at (313) 582-6222, or by filling out our online form. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care and support for your child’s foot health. Let us help your child get back to the activities they love, pain-free.
GET IN TOUCH
Contact
© Michigan Foot & Ankle Specialists. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy. Legal Disclaimer.
Web Design by CP Solutions. Marketed by VMD Services.