Understanding Sever's Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis) in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

As a parent, watching your child grow is a wonderful experience, but with growth often comes growing pains. One of the more common growth-related issues in children, especially active ones, is Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis. While the name may sound alarming, it's a temporary condition that can be effectively managed. At South Dublin Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing and treating this condition to ensure your child’s feet remain healthy and pain-free.

What is calcaneal apophysitis?

Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 during their growth spurts. The growth plate is the area at the back of the heel where bone growth occurs, and it is softer and more vulnerable to injury during periods of rapid growth.

Calcaneal Apophysitis is an overuse injury caused by the repetitive stress placed on the heel bone during activities like running, jumping, and other sports. It’s especially common in children involved in sports such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics.

What causes Calcaneal Apophysitis?

The primary cause of calcaneal apophysitis is stress on the heel bone from physical activity. During a child’s growth spurt, the heel bone grows faster than the muscles and tendons, leading to tightness in the Achilles tendon. When the Achilles tendon pulls on the back of the heel, it can cause irritation and inflammation of the growth plate.

Children who are very active, participate in sports on hard surfaces, or wear shoes that do not provide adequate support are at a higher of developing this condition.

Common Symptoms

The hallmark symptom of Calcaneal Apophysitis or Sever’s disease is heel pain, which often worsens during or after physical activity. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in one or both heels: Pain can range from mild to severe and may occur in one or both heels.

• Swelling around the heel area.

• Tenderness and redness near the back of the heel.

• Limping or difficulty walking, especially after activities like running or jumping.

• Stiffness in the foot, particularly after periods of rest.

If your child is complaining of heel pain or difficulty participating in sports or physical activities, it’s important to have them evaluated by a podiatrist.

How is Calcaneal Apophysitis Diagnosed?

At South Dublin Podiatry, we begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination of your child’s foot. We may press on different areas of the heel to locate the exact source of pain. In some cases, X-rays may be taken to rule out other injuries or causes of heel pain, but Sever’s disease typically does not show up on an X-ray.

Treatment Options 

The good news is that the condition is temporary and can usually be managed with conservative treatments. Our podiatrists may recommend the following:

1. Rest: Limiting activities that put pressure on the heel, like running and jumping, is crucial for reducing inflammation.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the heel for 15-20 minutes a few times a day can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

3. Heel Cups or Orthotic Inserts: Special heel cups or shoe inserts can cushion the heel and reduce pressure on the growth plate.

4. Stretching Exercises: We may recommend gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.

5. Supportive Footwear: Wearing shoes with good arch support and shock absorption is key to preventing further irritation.

6. Anti-inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

In more severe cases, your podiatrist may suggest a temporary reduction in activity, or in rare cases, the use of a walking boot to immobilise the foot and promote healing.

Preventing Calcaneal Apophysitis

While the condition is often related to growth spurts, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Ensure your child wears properly fitting, supportive shoes, especially during sports.

• Encourage regular stretching exercises to keep the Achilles tendon and calf muscles flexible.

• Maintain a balanced approach to physical activity with adequate rest and recovery periods.

When to Seek Help

If your child is experiencing persistent heel pain, it's important to consult a podiatrist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent calcaneal apophysitis from becoming a chronic issue. At South Dublin Podiatry, we are dedicated to helping your child get back to their active lifestyle pain-free. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your child’s feet are in good health.

Why not have a read of our blog on children's feet..

Call Us Now On:  📞01 9012009

or

Fill Out The Form Below And Request A Call From Our Team