Active children and young teenagers may develop Sever’s disease. This is a foot condition that can affect children who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. It happens when there is a growth spurt, and the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons. Many children who experience Sever’s disease feel a pulling sensation where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. This may lead to walking on tiptoes, and it can be difficult to run and jump. The child may feel better when the activity that caused the condition is temporarily stopped. Additionally, it can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly and to frequently elevate the affected foot. If you see your child limping, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose Sever’s disease and offer the correct treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Massimo Pietrantoni, DPM from Rochester Podiatry, LLP. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brighton and Greece of Rochester, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.