Severs Disease
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Severs disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis. It is an extremely common condition in children, and it can be very painful and limit the child’s ability to run and play.
As a child grows the calcaneus (Heel) can grow faster than the surrounding soft tissue, causing the Achilles tendon to be pulled uncomfortably tight. This causes inflammation and irritation of the calcaneal apophysis (growth plate). This means when performing physical activity like running and jumping the growth plate is irritated, increasing the pain significantly. Severs disease most typically affects children between the ages of 8-14.
Some common symptoms of Severs are an increase in pain after exercise, a limp can also be seen sometimes, and tightness in the calf muscle can also be an indicator. Severs can in time resolve on its own when the growth plate fuses. Until that occurs it can cause a considerable amount of pain.
At Coast Sport we can professionally diagnose what the underlying cause of the condition may be. Whether it is an issue of tight muscles due to a recent growth spurt or potentially an underlying biomechanical issue, which we can assess through a visual gait assessment. The Podiatrist may recommend devices to be worn in shoes if it’s going to help relieve the child’s pain and reduce the risk of complication in the future.
Book an appointment at Coast Sport by calling (02) 4356 2588 or book online via the button below.
Thanks to Coast Sport Podiatrist Will for preparing this blog. You can find out more about Will here.
Will practices as a Podiatrist at both Toukley (Toukley Family Practice) and Tuggerah (Tuggerah Medical Centre and Coast Sport).
Helping the Central Coast Feel Well, Move Well and Perform Well!