How Long Does Sever’s Disease Last? A Guide for Parents and Young Athletes

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those who are active in sports. If your child has been diagnosed with Sever’s disease, one of the first questions you’re likely to have is, "How long will this condition last?" Understanding the duration and course of Sever’s disease can help you manage your child’s symptoms and ensure they return to their favourite activities as soon as possible.

At South Dublin Podiatry, we’re here to provide you with the information and care you need to navigate this condition. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what Sever’s disease is, how long it typically lasts, and what you can do to help your child recover.

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an overuse injury that affects the growth plate in the heel of growing children. It’s most common in kids between the ages of 8 and 14, particularly those who are involved in high-impact sports like soccer, basketball, or gymnastics.

The condition occurs because the heel bone (calcaneus) grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, creating tension and stress on the growth plate. This can lead to inflammation and pain at the back of the heel, especially during activities that involve running or jumping.

How Long Does Sever’s Disease Last?

The duration of Sever’s disease can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the level of activity, and how well the condition is managed. On average, Sever’s disease lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

• Mild Cases: In cases where the symptoms are mild, and appropriate treatment is initiated early, Sever’s disease may resolve within 4 to 6 weeks.

• Moderate Cases: If the condition is more pronounced, with significant heel pain and limitations in activity, recovery may take 2 to 3 months.

• Severe Cases: In more severe instances, or if the child continues with intense sports activities without adequate rest or treatment, symptoms can persist for 6 months or longer. However, these prolonged cases are less common.

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Several factors can influence how long Sever’s disease lasts:

1. Activity Level: Children who continue high-impact activities without allowing time for rest and healing may experience prolonged symptoms. Reducing or modifying activities can significantly shorten recovery time.

2. Treatment Compliance: Adhering to the recommended treatment plan, which may include rest, icing, stretching exercises, and the use of orthotics or heel pads, is crucial for a faster recovery.

3. Growth Spurts: Since Sever’s disease is directly related to growth, the timing and pace of your child’s growth spurts can impact how long the condition lasts. The condition usually resolves once the growth plate fully matures, which can vary from child to child.

Treatment and Management Strategies

Managing Sever’s disease effectively can help reduce pain and speed up recovery. Here are some common treatment strategies:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or temporarily stopping sports and high-impact activities is essential to give the heel time to heal.

• Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected heel can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, especially after activities.

• Stretching Exercises: Stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help reduce tension on the heel, easing the symptoms of Sever’s disease.

• Heel Pads or Orthotics: Using cushioned heel pads or custom orthotics can provide additional support and reduce pressure on the heel during activities.

• Proper Footwear: Ensuring your child wears supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help prevent exacerbation of symptoms.

When to Return to Sports

One of the most important aspects of managing Sever’s disease is knowing when your child can safely return to sports. Returning too soon can lead to a recurrence of symptoms and prolong the condition. Generally, your child can return to activities when they:

• Are pain-free during normal activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.

• Have regained full range of motion in the ankle and foot.

• Can participate in sports-specific activities without pain or discomfort.

Conclusion

Sever’s disease, while painful and frustrating, is a temporary condition that most children outgrow as their bodies mature. With proper treatment and management, your child can recover fully and return to their favorite activities without long-term issues.

If your child is experiencing heel pain or you suspect Sever’s disease, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced podiatrists can provide a thorough assessment and develop a personalized treatment plan to help your child recover quickly and safely.

Your child’s health and happiness are our top priorities. Let us help them get back on their feet and back in the game!

Why not have a read of our blog post on Children's Feet

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