This school year, many students will participate in school sports, meaning participants and their parents will have to pay extra attention to their feet and ankles for injury. For children ages eight to 15, Sever’s disease is one of the most common injuries that occur when the feet become overused. To avoid injuries, make sure kids stretch before playing to warm and loosen the muscles, wear the proper shoes for the sport, and avoid repetitive motions that may place stress on the bones and muscles.
If your child is suffering from heel pain, it can be indicative of Sever’s disease. To learn more, see one of our podiatrists from Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Toe gait- develops in which the child must change the way they walk to avoid placing weight on the heel. This can lead to other problems as well in the future.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
