The start of the spring sports seasons means an increase in the number of young patients we see at Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC with Sever’s Disease. Somewhat of a misnomer, Sever’s Disease is not actually a disease; it’s an inflammation of the growth plate of the heel bone that can cause extreme pain.

Risk Factors

Sever’s Disease is most likely to affect patients between the ages of 8 to 15 and more often occurs in boys than girls. In this age range, the growth plate at the back of the heel is still developing and has not fully formed. Wearing cleats seems to increase the chances of Sever’s Disease and it is often seen in teen athletes who are very active in soccer, baseball or football. A faulty foot mechanics issue may also be an underlying reason for this condition.

Diagnosis and Treatment

One of our podiatrists, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele, and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s foot and ankle. A complete medical history will be taken and the foot doctor will want to know when the pain was first noticed as well as how it is affected by activity. A digital x-ray may be ordered (which can be done right in our office) to rule out a heel fracture or other conditions. Once the diagnosis of Sever’s Disease is confirmed, the foot doctor will recommend the right treatment for your child. It may include any or all of the following:

• Rest and possibly immobilization of the heel
• Icing the heel
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to relieve pain
• Custom orthotics inserted into the shoes to correct foot function and take pressure off the heel

Continuing to play on a heel with Sever’s Disease can lead to major disability and long-term damage. If your child is telling you that his or her heel hurts, make an appointment at either our Monroe or Lambertville office and we’ll help get your child safely back in the game.