Sever’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Young Athletes
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition that affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. It is characterised by pain in the heel that is worse during or after physical activity. While Sever’s disease can be painful and disruptive, it is treatable, and most children make a full recovery with proper care.
Causes of Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. During periods of rapid growth, the Achilles tendon can pull on the growth plate, causing irritation and inflammation. This is more likely to occur in children who are active in sports or activities that involve running and jumping.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease
The most common symptom of Sever’s disease is pain in the heel that is worse during or after physical activity. The pain may be dull or sharp and may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness in the affected area. Some children may also experience a limp or difficulty walking.
Diagnosis of Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional based on a physical examination and a review of the child’s medical history. Imaging tests like X-rays may be ordered to rule out other conditions that can cause heel pain.
Treatment of Sever’s Disease
Treatment for Sever’s disease typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and pain relief. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and allow the affected area to heal.
Rest: Rest is essential for allowing the affected area to heal. Children with Sever’s disease should avoid activities that exacerbate pain and may need to take a break from sports or other physical activities.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the affected area, which can reduce pain and improve flexibility. A physical therapist can develop a personalised exercise program for each child based on their individual needs.
Pain relief: Pain relief medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. In some cases, a healthcare professional may recommend the use of a heel pad or shoe insert to help cushion the affected area.
Prevention of Sever’s Disease
While Sever’s disease cannot always be prevented, there are steps that parents and children can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition. These include:
Wearing proper footwear: Children should wear shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support and cushioning.
Stretching before physical activity: Engaging in stretching exercises prior to physical activity can aid in warming up the muscles and minimising the chances of sustaining an injury.
Gradual increase in activity: Children should gradually increase the intensity and duration of physical activity to reduce the risk of injury.
Sever’s disease is a common condition that affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. It is caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone and is more likely to occur in children who are active in sports or activities that involve running and jumping. Treatment for Sever’s disease typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and pain relief. While Sever’s disease cannot always be prevented, there are steps that parents and children can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition. With proper care, most children with Sever’s disease make a full recovery and are able to return to their normal activities.