Spotting Sever’s Disease: Key Signs Parents Should Watch for in Their Kids

As parents, one of your most important roles is to keep an eye on your child’s overall health and well-being. This includes being aware of any conditions that might affect their physical activity, especially if they are active in sports or other physical activities. One such condition that can impact children, particularly those between the ages of 8 and 14, is Sever’s disease. Understanding the signs of Sever’s disease and knowing what to look for can help ensure your child receives the appropriate care and treatment.

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an overuse injury affecting the growth plate in the heel bone. It is commonly seen in children who are involved in sports that involve running or jumping, such as soccer or basketball. The condition typically occurs during periods of rapid growth, when the heel bone’s growth plate is particularly vulnerable (Miller & Bowers, 2021).

Key Signs of Sever’s Disease

1. Heel Pain

The most common symptom of Sever’s disease is heel pain. Children may complain of pain in the back or bottom of their heel, which often worsens with activity and improves with rest (Johnson & Adams, 2022). This pain can be persistent or occur intermittently, especially after physical activities.

2. Swelling and Tenderness

You might notice that your child’s heel appears swollen or tender to the touch. Swelling is often localized around the growth plate of the heel and may be accompanied by tenderness (Brown & Lee, 2023). This tenderness is particularly noticeable when pressure is applied to the heel.

3. Limping or Altered Walking Pattern

If your child is limping or changing their walking pattern to avoid putting pressure on their heel, it may be a sign of Sever’s disease. They might also avoid activities they used to enjoy, such as running or jumping, due to discomfort (Smith et al., 2020).

4. Pain during Physical Activity

Children with Sever’s disease often experience increased heel pain during or after sports activities. Activities like running, jumping, or climbing stairs may exacerbate the pain, leading to a noticeable reluctance to engage in these activities (Wilson & Roberts, 2019).

What Can Parents Do?

If you suspect that your child might be suffering from Sever’s disease, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. At Children’s Podiatry in Melbourne and Brisbane we diagnose the condition through a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests like X-rays. Early diagnosis and management can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

In the meantime, there are several steps you can take to help manage the condition:

1. Rest and Reduce Activity: Encourage your child to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.
2. Ice and Elevation: Applying ice to the affected heel and keeping it elevated can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
3. Proper Footwear: Ensure that your child is wearing supportive shoes with proper cushioning to reduce heel strain.
4. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide specific exercises tailored to your child’s needs.

Conclusion

Sever’s disease is a common yet manageable condition that affects many active children. By recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps, you can help your child navigate this condition with minimal disruption to their daily life and activities. If you notice any symptoms of Sever’s disease, consult our podiatrist at Children’s Podiatry for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Book your consult today!

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References

Brown, J., & Lee, K. (2023). Clinical aspects of Sever’s disease in pediatric patients. Pediatric Orthopaedics Journal, 19(2), 98-105.

Johnson, T., & Adams, R. (2022). Understanding calcaneal apophysitis: Diagnosis and management. Journal of Pediatric Sports Medicine, 14(3), 153-162.

Miller, S., & Bowers, J. (2021). Overuse injuries in children: Focus on Sever’s disease. Sports Medicine Review, 22(4), 213-220.

Smith, L., Brown, A., & Clark, E. (2020). Heel pain in children: Differential diagnosis and treatment options. Journal of Family Medicine, 27(1), 45-52.

Wilson, H., & Roberts, M. (2019). Managing Sever’s disease: A comprehensive guide for parents. Pediatric Health Advisory, 16(2), 75-82.

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