What Is Sever's Disease?

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Children with pain and discomfort around their heel may be showing signs of Sever’s disease. This uncomfortable condition is common among growing children who participate in vigorous activity, such as sports. It affects the back of the heel, growth plate and heel bone and is usually found in children between the ages of eight and 14.

Learn more about the signs, symptoms, causes and treatment options for Sever’s disease. Explore solutions for this painful disease and find out how activities at home or medical treatment options can assist a child who may be living with this disease.

1. What Are the Risk Factors of Sever’s Disease?

Adolescents and children who participate in strenuous athletic activities have a higher chance of being affected by this disease. Continued stress to the heel is a common risk factor, which occurs during jumping and running sports and outdoor activities.

Another potential factor is growth spurts. Periods of rapid growth cause structural changes to the heel bones, tendons and muscles of adolescents and increase the risk of Sever’s disease. Wearing flat shoes can also be a contributing variable. Overall, though, growing periods appear to be the most common risk factor, as many adolescents who are less active can still experience this issue.