Severs Disease is a common, temporary heel condition that affects active children during rapid periods of growth. It is most common in girls from 8 – 10 and boys from 10 – 12 years of age.
The cause of this condition is inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. The muscles and tendons can become tight and over stretched while children are growing as the muscles adapt to the growth of the bone. The calf muscles attach to the heel as the Achilles Tendon. The growth plate is located at this heel attachment and physical activity will place increased strain on the attachment resulting in inflammation, pain and tenderness.
Severs Disease can be exacerbated by poorly fitting shoes, sports that involve running and jumping and children that have issues with the alignment of their foot.
With correct management Severs Disease will usually settle and not cause any ongoing problems. It is rarely seen once that growth plate finishes growing at around 15 years of age. The sooner Severs Disease is diagnosed and treated, the quicker the recovery is.
Physiotherapy Treatment
- Ice
- Activity Modification / Rest
- Graduated Stretching and Strengthening Program
- Anti Inflammatories
- Assessment of footwear and footwear advice
- Assessment of foot alignment and orthotic prescription when necessary
Our therapists have had great results in dealing with this type of injury and firmly believe that the best recoveries are achieved by early intervention. If you need more information on how to manage Severs Disease don’t hesitate to contact our clinic and one of our experienced physiotherapists can work out a treatment plan and exercises for you.