Sever's Disease

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common heel injury that occurs in growing children, typically between the ages of 8 and 15. It is not actually a disease but rather an overuse injury of the growth plate in the heel bone (calcaneus). This condition most commonly affects active children involved in sports that require running and jumping.

Causes & Considerations

The main cause of Sever's disease is repetitive stress on the heel bone and its growth plate. During periods of rapid growth, the muscles and tendons around the heel can become tight and pull on the growth plate, causing inflammation and pain. Factors that can contribute to Sever's disease include:

  • Overuse from sports activities
  • Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendon
  • Pelvic or hip restrictions or imbalances that place more pressure on the calf/achilles
  • Flat feet or high arches - weak/unsupported feet/unstable
  • Obesity or sudden growth spurts

It's important to differentiate Sever's disease from other causes of heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, as the prognosis can vary. Your child’s osteopath will carry out a comprehensive history taking and physical assessment to determine the cause of your child’s heel pain.

Osteopathic Treatment

Osteopathic treatment for Sever's disease focuses on reducing pain, improving flexibility, and promoting healing. Your child’s osteopath will consider the changes in the body during a growth spurt and provide treatment to optimise comfort levels throughout the growing phase and assist the body in better adapting to growth. Techniques commonly used in an osteopathic treatment for children with Sever’s disease include:

  • Gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
  • Manual therapy to reduce tension in the muscles and promote blood flow to the affected area, such as muscle energy technique, soft tissue massage and joint articulation and mobilisation.
  • Education on proper training techniques and activity modification to prevent recurrence.
  • Taping- your child’s osteopath my apply kinesiology tape to the heel and achilles to support the muscles and achilles tendon and promote healing

Osteopathic treatment is individualised based on the child's age, activity level, and severity of symptoms. Most children with Sever's disease can continue to participate in sports and activities with modifications to reduce stress on the heel. Your child’s osteopath will provide support and recommendations to ensure your child is more comfortable during the management of their condition.

Heel Pain or plantar fasciitis concept. Hand on foot as suffer from inflammation feet problem of Sever's Disease or calcaneal apophysitis.

Lifestyle & Management Advice

In addition to osteopathic treatment, lifestyle and management advice can help manage Sever's disease. Your child’s osteopath will discuss with you and your child the most appropriate strategies to assist with healing and pain reduction. Some management options include:

  • Rest: limiting high-impact activities and allowing time for the area to heal is crucial.
  • Ice: Applying ice to the affected heel can help reduce pain and inflammation. Try icing the area for no longer than 15 minutes, every 2 hours during painful flare ups.
  • Stretching and rolling: stretching the muscles around the calves including the quadriceps and hamstrings can assist in relaxing the tight calf muscles and reduce the pulling on the back of the heel through the achilles tendon. Using a foam roller to roll out the calf muscle can further assist in relaxing the muscle.
  • Gradual return to activity: Once symptoms improve, gradually returning to sports and activities can help prevent recurrence.

Sever's disease is a temporary condition that can be managed with appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications. By addressing the underlying causes and promoting healing, children can recover fully and safely return to their normal activities. Contact the clinic to find out more on treatment and management options to support your child through to full recovery.

We use hands-on techniques and lifestyle advice to help people like you suffering pain, stiffness, illness and injury to reduce pain, move better and return to the things they love to do so they can live happier, healthier lives.   For further information, please contact us on info@head2toehealth.com.au or 07) 3208 8308.

This information is intended as a general guide only and is not specific for any particular condition or situation. This information is for educational purposes only. Please seek specific advice for your individual circumstances.