Medically reviewed by board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Nic Gay, MD and Dr. Kerisimasi Reynolds, MD
Sever’s Disease Treatment
Growing pains may be a common misconception among the general public, but the term does derive from genuine conditions. Sever’s disease occurs when the heel bone experiences faster growth than supporting tissues, such as tendons and muscles. This results in the tendons and muscles becoming overstretched because the heel bone is out of proportion.
Your child’s heel bone is one of the bones that will achieve full adult growth first. This growth may not cause problems unless the child is regularly engaged in activities that are hard wearing on the feet. Such activities may include running, playing basketball or doing gymnastics on hard surfaces. The overstretched tendons are put under additional stress, resulting in swelling and attachment to the part of the heel that is growing faster.
Silicon Valley Orthopaedics can provide effective treatment to relieve the symptoms of Sever’s disease. Custom orthotic inserts and devices are designed to reduce stress on the heel. However, Dr. Nic Gay or Dr. Masi Reynolds may also recommend rest, which means taking time away from sporting activities. Sever’s disease is not a permanent condition, and it will typically resolve within a few months.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease
You may observe your child having trouble walking when he or she is suffering from Sever’s disease. Walking on the toes is a common symptom. Ask about pain, swelling or redness that occurs in one or both heels. Dr. Nic Gay or Dr. Masi Reynolds will gently squeeze the affected heel to determine if pain worsens.
The pain in your child’s heel may get worse when they are engaged in certain sporting activities such as running or jumping. Hard shoes, including soccer cleats, can result in worsening pain. Symptoms also become prominent at the beginning of sporting seasons when the child becomes more active.
For the diagnosis and treatment of Sever’s disease, make an appointment with Silicon Valley Orthopaedics in California.
