If your child often complains about heel pain, especially during physical activity or afterwards, it can be easy to write it off to simple soreness or perhaps growing pains. When a child is between eight and fifteen years old and has persistent pain in the heel, it may be due to Sever’s disease. This condition is not an illness per se, but instead is an injury due to overuse that affects the growth plate in the child’s heel.
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain that occurs in growing children who are physically active. It most often occurs when there is a time of rapid growth and the muscles, tendons, and bones are adjusting to the growth at different rates. This condition comes from the repetitive stress that occurs with the heel bone where the Achilles is attached. With early recognition of symptoms and a good treatment plan, it can be managed effectively.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease
The primary indicator of this condition is pain in the heel, usually at the bottom or back of the heel. It may develop gradually, becoming more prominent during or after periods of physical activity. Your child might say they have a sharp pain or dull ache there, and it may affect one or both heels. It’s also likely that there will be discomfort or stiffness in the morning after sleep, or after sitting for quite a while.
There can be inflammation or swelling, and perhaps even redness, at the back of the heel. Your child may even begin walking on their toes so that they can avoid putting any pressure on their painful heel. You might also notice that they shy away from sports, even though they enjoyed playing previously.
Treatment Options
With Sever’s disease, the primary goal of treatment is to reduce the inflammation and provide relief from pain. Rest and modified activities may be necessary; it’s recommended that a child limit activities that cause pain until symptoms have improved. Applying cold packs or ice on the back of the heel for approximately twenty minutes after a child walks or engages in physical activity can help reduce pain and swelling.
Choosing shoes that have cushioned soles and good arch support can help reduce strain and absorb shock on the heel. In some instances, heel pads or cups may be inserted into the shoes to further relieve heel pressure. A routine of stretching exercises for calf muscles and the Achilles tendon can also be very helpful for managing Sever’s disease.
Prevention and Long-Term Outlook
Prevention strategies like ensuring the child has shoes that fit well and offer support can help reduce impact on the heel. You might also encourage your child to vary their physical activities to reduce the incidence of repetitive stress. They would also benefit from incorporating lower-impact sports, like cycling or swimming.
Most children will fully recover from Sever’s disease within several weeks to a couple of months. This condition rarely causes problems over the long term.
Sever’s disease is a temporary, manageable condition that affects growing children, especially those who participate in sports. While it can cause pain, it doesn’t result in permanent damage and usually resolves when the child’s heel bone completes growth around the age of fourteen or fifteen. With the right treatment plan, proper attention, and care, you’ll be able to help your child return to their favourite activities soon, without complications. For professional guidance, consult a children’s podiatrist or foot specialist.
Recent Comments