Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is not a disease at all, but rather an overuse injury. This condition affects the growth plate of the heel bone and is therefore most common in children and teenagers who are still rapidly growing. Sever’s disease causes inflammation in the heel, stiffness in the foot, and pain when standing, walking, running or jumping that usually improves with rest. Children who are involved in sports are the most at risk for developing Sever’s disease because they put frequent, repetitive pressure on the heel. Other risk factors for developing this condition include wearing ill-fitting shoes, having flat arches or pronated feet, and obesity. If your child is experiencing heel pain and stiffness, it is recommended that you take them to a podiatrist for treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Jill Einhorn, DPM and James Einhorn, DPM. Our doctors 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 Brooklyn and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.