Calcaneal apophysitis, commonly called Sever’s Disease, is a condition prevalent in boys aged 8 to 13. It is an inflammation of the growth plate in the calcaneal area. It can be on one foot or both. It seemingly begins as a strain of the Achilles tendon with pain and sensitivity at the back of the heel during running and standing.
This condition finds itself most frequently in boys who overpronate, have tight calf muscles and participate in sports that are played on hard, flat surfaces. As the bone fully grows together – around age 16 – the condition resolves. There is no known long term complications associated with Sever’s disease.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Calcaneal apophysitis (inflammation of the growth plate)
Symptoms:
- Pain in Achilles tendon and heel area
- Pain increases when squeezing the sides of the heel bone
Signs to look for:
- Boys ages 8 to 13
- Overpronation
- Pain relieved at rest and increased with activity
- Limping in affected limb
- Tight calf muscles
- Involved in high impact sports played on hard, flat surfaces
Possible Causes:
- Heredity
- Pronating foot and tight calf muscles in boys of this age group
- Micro trauma from sports activities on hard surfaces creates inflammation in this part of the body in boys in this age group and phase of development
Goals:
- Reduce pressure on heel and Achilles tendon in acute phase
- Correct overpronation
- Lengthen Achilles tendon
- Restore flexibility in leg, ankle and foot muscles
- Footwear to move the foot forward and reduce lateral movement
Firm arch support with rounded heel cup
Shoes:
- Shoes with firm heel counter, rocker soles and connecting shank
- Wear shoes with titanium springs to avoid symptoms
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel brand
Other:
- Thin rubber heel lift under the arch support (in both shoes). As symptoms are reduced, take the heel lifts out
- Self-limiting condition – bone grows together by around age 16 and problems resolve
Activities:
- Regular stretching of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon and arch structure
- Management of sports activities – reduction of activities that produce symptoms until arch support and rubber heel lift in place
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: I. Alexander, The Foot: Exam & Diagnosis Text: D. Janisse, CPed, Editor, Introduction to Pedorthics, Epodiatry.com, I. Alexander, The Foot: Exam & Diagnosis