Sever’s disease typically affects children between 8 and 12 years of age. It is known as the most common form of heel pain in this age group, and will commonly affect children who are involved in sporting activities. It is the result of inflammation around the growth plate of the heel, and repeated trauma to this area may cause this condition to occur. Patients may confuse this ailment with plantar fasciitis due to the fact that heel pain is a common symptom. The differences include possible pain in the Achilles tendon in people afflicted with Sever’s disease, and this typically does not occur in injuries to the plantar fascia. Treatment options may include wearing shoe inserts or manipulating the ankles and feet, which may provide better alignment. This condition may be prevented by having your child’s feet checked by a podiatrist a few times per year to evaluate how the growth plate is affected as the child progresses in age.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Adam Auster at Florida. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Miami Shores and South Miami, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.