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PODIATRY:
Heel Pain in Growing Athletes
One of the most frequent growing conditions we see in children is pain at the heel. The common name for this condition is ‘Sever’s Disease’. In this blog, musculoskeletal podiatrist Chelsea will explain the causes of heel pain in growing athletes—and what can be done to manage the symptoms and stay as active as possible.
Author:
Chelsea Enright, Musculoskeletal Podiatrist
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Published Jun 19, 2021
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What Is Sever's Disease?
Sever’s disease commonly affects the feet of children aged 8-14 years old who are active and going through a growth spurt. During a growth spurt, your child’s heel bone grows faster than the muscles, tendons and ligaments in their leg. Ossification or ‘closure’ of the heel growth plate is often complete by the age of 15. Sever’s is typically associated with pain at the heel bone where the Achilles attaches to the growth plate. The pain is due to inflammation at the growth plate where the Achilles tendon attaches to the calcaneal apophysis (heel growth plate). Sever’s is a self-limiting condition and won’t cause any long term damage, however, it is important to manage the symptoms as best as possible.
Common Symptoms of Sever's Disease
Tenderness over the back of the heel
Pain during running and jumping
Walking with a limp after sport
Tightness through the calf muscle
How can Sever’s disease be managed?
At PEAK, our musculoskeletal podiatrists regularly manage this condition. They are able to use a combination of the following for the most effective management:
- Advice and guidance on training load and activity modification
- Custom foot orthotics to correct any biomechanical factors
- Strength exercises
- Footwear review and advice
- Manual therapy and strapping techniques
- Running technique assessment
How can Sever’s disease be managed?
Double or single leg calf raises
Banded hamstring stretch
Hamstring foam rolling
Calf foam rolling
Helpful tips and tricks for managing Sever’s
- Monitor your child’s growth during rapid growth spurts.
- Invest in supportive, well-fitting footwear.
- Avoid aggressive calf stretching, as it can increase pressure on the Achilles tendon.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
It is important to treat this condition as soon as possible. If you would like further assessment and advice, book an appointment with PEAK.
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