The foot condition that is known as Sever’s disease affects adolescents and young children. It affects the growth plate in the heel area and can occur due to the heel enduring consistent pressure from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition include limping and walking on tiptoes to avoid aggravating the heel, heel stiffness, and heel pain that may be more prominent upon arising in the morning. There are stretches that can be performed which may help to bring mild relief. These can include seated calf stretches, hamstring stretches, and it may help to use a foam roller that is rolled between the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. Sever's disease can be a painful experience, and it is strongly suggested that your child is under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Associates of North Carolina, PLLC. 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 one of our offices located in Ahoskie, Durham, Raleigh, and Rocky Mount, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.