If your child is experiencing heel pain during physical activities, they might be suffering from Sever’s disease, a common condition that affects growing children and adolescents. At the Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic, we understand the concerns parents face when their little ones experience discomfort. In this blog, we’ll explore what Sever’s disease is, its causes, symptoms, and share expert advice from our clinic’s podiatrists Dr Bilal Khelladi on effective treatments and prevention strategies.
What is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an overuse injury affecting the growth plate in the heel bone of children and young teenagers. Typically occurring between ages 8 and 15, Sever’s disease arises during growth spurts when bones and muscles grow at different rates, leading to stress on the heel’s growth plate.
Causes of Sever’s Disease
Understanding the root causes of Sever’s disease can help prevent its occurrence. Common contributing factors include:
- High-impact sports: Activities like soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and running can put excessive strain on the heel, leading to microtrauma in the growth plate.
- Overtraining and lack of rest: Too much physical activity without sufficient rest can increase the risk of developing Sever’s disease.
- Improper footwear: Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can exacerbate the condition and worsen heel pain.
- Foot mechanics: Being flat footed, or having a high arch or any atypical walking pattern places extra strain on the heel when standing and walking.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease
Recognizing the symptoms of Sever’s disease is vital for timely intervention. Keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Persistent heel pain: Your child may complain of ongoing pain in the back or bottom of the heel, particularly during or after physical activities.
- Limping or favoring one foot: To minimize pain, your child may begin to limp or avoid putting weight on the affected foot.
- Swelling and tenderness: The heel may become swollen and tender to the touch.
- Limited mobility: Discomfort in the heel area may result in reduced range of motion in the ankle and foot.
Expert Tips from Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic
At Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic, our experienced children’s podiatrists Dr Bilal Khelladi provides expert advice to manage and treat Sever’s disease effectively:
- Rest and activity modification: Encourage your child to take a break from high-impact activities and gradually reintroduce them as the heel heals.
- Ice therapy: Apply ice to the affected heel for 15-20 minutes several times a day to alleviate inflammation and pain.
- Gentle stretching exercises: Our podiatrists will guide your child through specific calf muscle stretches to reduce tension on the growth plate.
- Supportive footwear: Ensure your child wears properly fitting shoes with adequate cushioning and arch support to protect the heel.
- Custom orthotic inserts: Our clinic offers custom-made orthotic inserts which treats the cause of Severs disease. Our physical and biomechanical assessments allow for us to get your child back into the sports they love as quickly as possible.
- Physical therapy: Consult our skilled physical therapists to learn targeted exercises and techniques that promote healing and prevent recurrence.
- Pain management: Under professional supervision, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can be used to manage discomfort.
Conclusion
As parents, your child’s health and well-being are your top priority. If your little one is experiencing heel pain or any symptoms of Sever’s disease, don’t hesitate to seek expert care from Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic. Our skilled children’s podiatrists and physical therapists is dedicated to helping children overcome Sever’s disease and get back to their active, pain-free lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and provide your child with the specialized care they deserve. With the right treatment and support, we’ll ensure your child’s journey to a healthier, happier stride!
If you are experiencing any leg or foot pain, book an appointment today by calling us on (02) 9791 1790 or by BOOKING ONLINE