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Heel, Achilles & Arch Pain

Sever's Disease

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for Sever's disease, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Heel, Achilles & Arch Pain

Understanding Sever's disease and your options.

Sever's disease is heel pain in growing kids, caused by irritation of the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. The growth plate is a soft area where new bone forms, and the Achilles tendon pulls on it. It is a common overuse problem and not a sign of lasting damage.

It usually appears in active children between about 8 and 14. Simple steps taken early can help your child stay in the game with less pain.

Also called: Calcaneal Apophysitis

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Sever's Disease care

Symptoms

Signs of Sever's disease.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Heel pain during or after sports and running

  • 02

    Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid heel pressure

  • 03

    Soreness when the sides of the heel are squeezed

  • 04

    Pain that eases with rest and returns with play

Why it happens

What can cause Sever's disease.

  • 01

    Fast growth that leaves calf muscles tight

  • 02

    Lots of running and jumping on hard surfaces

  • 03

    Cleats or shoes with little heel cushion

  • 04

    Flat feet or foot alignment that adds strain

Care groupHeel, Achilles & Arch Pain

Diagnosis and care

How we treat Sever's disease.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We ask about your child's sports and shoes, then check the heel, calf flexibility, and foot shape. The squeeze test is a simple way to spot growth plate irritation. An X-ray can rule out a fracture or other problem, though it does not usually show Sever's itself.

Step 2 · Treatment

Relief comes from easing the pull on the heel. Heel cups or lifts, supportive shoes, and calf stretches are the core of care. Kids may need to cut back on sports for a while, and ice after play can help. Orthotics or taping are options for those with flat feet or ongoing pain.

Surgery is not used for Sever's disease. It settles as the growth plate matures.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Most children feel better within a few weeks to a few months. Pain can return during growth spurts but usually ends once growth is complete.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

Book a visit if your child limps, complains of heel pain after sports, or has pain that lasts more than a week or two. Come in quickly if there is swelling, a fall, or pain at night.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Heel, Achilles & Arch Pain.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Does my child have to quit sports?

Often not fully. Cutting back, using heel support, and stretching may let your child keep playing with less pain.

Will Sever's disease cause problems as an adult?

It does not usually cause lasting harm. It goes away once the heel bone finishes growing.

Get help with Sever's disease.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Sever's Disease care at 15 clinics.

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