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Is your child complaining about heel pain, especially after participating in sports or running? It could be Sever's disease. Although the name might sound daunting, it's a common and treatable condition that affects active kids. At Spectrum Healthcare, located in North Ryde and Macquarie Park, we specialise in helping children recover from Sever's disease and return to the activities they love.

What is Sever's Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis)?

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is not actually a disease! It is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel (calcaneus). The calcaneus is the bone at the back of the foot where the Achilles tendon (connected to the calf muscles) attaches.

In children and adolescents, this area is still developing and consists of a growth plate made of cartilage. During activity, the calf muscles pull on the Achilles tendon, which then tugs on the growth plate. Repetitive stress and overuse can irritate this growth plate, causing pain and inflammation.

Who is at Risk for Sever's Disease?

• Age: Typically affects children aged 8-14, during growth spurts.
• Activity Level: Active children involved in running, jumping, and high-impact sports (soccer, basketball, athletics, etc.).
• Gender: More common in boys than girls.
• Recent Growth Spurt: Rapid growth can make the heel more vulnerable.
• Foot Biomechanics: Kids with flat feet or high arches may be more prone to Sever's.

Symptoms of Sever's Disease

• Heel pain that worsens with activity (running, jumping, walking).
• Pain that may be present first thing in the morning or after rest.
• Tenderness when squeezing the sides of the heel.
• Mild swelling or redness around the heel.
• Stiffness in the foot and ankle.
• Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid pressure on the heel.
• Pain in one or both heels.

When to Seek Help

Don't dismiss your child's heel pain as "growing pains," especially if it persists or worsens. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for effectively managing Sever's disease.

How Spectrum Healthcare Can Help Your Child

Our experienced team of Sports Physiotherapists and Chiropractors at Spectrum Healthcare in North Ryde/Macquarie Park offers comprehensive care for Sever's disease, including:

• Thorough Assessment: We'll evaluate your child's condition, activity level, and biomechanics to create a personalised treatment plan.

• Pain Management:
  We use techniques like:
  • Soft Tissue Therapy: Massage, cupping, and gentle dry needling to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Joint Mobilisation: Gentle techniques to restore ankle and foot mobility.
  • Game Ready: Hot and cold contrast therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Rehabilitation and Strengthening: We'll guide your child through a progressive exercise program to strengthen the calf muscles, improve flexibility, and restore proper biomechanics.

• Activity Modification:
  We'll provide advice on modifying activities to reduce stress on the heel.

• Orthotics and Heel Lifts:
  If necessary, we can refer you to our podiatrist partners for custom orthotics or heel lifts to provide support and cushioning.

Imaging

X-rays are sometimes used to rule out other causes of heel pain. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended to assess the soft tissues around the heel.

Long-Term Outlook

Sever's disease usually clears up once the growth plate fuses (around age 14). However, it is important to address any underlying biomechanical issues to prevent future problems.