Sever's Diseases: A Painful Condition Your Child Could Be Suffering From

Sever's disease is a common problem in children, especially active children. Sever's disease or calcaneal apophysitisoccurs when the growth plate in children becomes inflamed. Any child can suffer from Sever's disease but it is most common in active children. The repeated stress and pressure to the heel can add or aggravate the condition.

Symptoms of Sever's Disease:

Sever's disease can be a dull, aching pain or it can be so sever that the child begins to retract from their sports and even begins to limp. This condition can occur in any growing child but is most common in active children. Those who play sports such as track, soccer and football are at a higher risk because of the stress on the heel. Sever's disease most commonly affects teenagers.

Sever's disease is caused by just using your heel, so any teen can suffer from this condition. It affects teens and children most commonly because the child's heel bone is growing faster than the leg. Overuse, such as starting a new sport, walking more (to or from school) or a fast growth spurt can trigger the condition.

Treatment of Sever's Disease:

Treatment for Sever's disease is usually conservative and involves some TLC. We suggest starting out with the RICE method. Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Try to convince your teen to kick back and relax. Your doctor may also suggest a pair of custom fitted orthotics that will help to stabilize and relieve pressure on the feet. Practicing some simple stretching exercisesis a great idea. Surgery may be necessary in extreme cases.

If your child is complaining of foot pain and has just started a new sport or activity, he/she may be suffering from Sever's disease. Make an appointment to have your child checked by a doctor before the condition worsens.