Sever’s Disease

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease (also called calcaneal apophysitis) is the inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. The condition occurs in young people, typically adolescents, whose bones have not fused and fully matured. Sever’s disease is caused by repetitive stress to the heel and is therefore especially common in athletic active children.

The primary symptom of Sever’s disease is pain at the back of the heel that made worse by physical activity, particularly running or jumping. While the onset is usually gradual, the pain may become severe enough to interfere with performance in sports.

Treatment for Sever’s disease may include one or more of the following:
  • R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
  • Elevation of the heel.
  • Stretching the hamstring and calf muscles.
  • Foot orthotics.
  • Medication.
  • Ice or heat therapy.
  • Physical therapy.
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