Sever’s Disease

(Calcaneal Apophysitis)

 

Summary

Sever’s disease is characterized by heel pain in a growing adolescent. It occurs when the growth plate (Apophysis) in the heel is subject to excessive repetitive force. It tends to occur in active, rapidly growing children, and it is more common in boys. The condition is named after James Sever, who was the American orthopaedic surgeon who described the condition in 1912.

Treatment

The condition is self-limiting. Once the growth plate has closed, the condition will resolve. Symptoms can be improved or eliminated by decreasing the patient’s activity levels; stretching the calf muscles (gastrocnemius) and hamstrings; taking anti-inflammatory medication (if not contra-indicated); using comfort orthotics; wearing comfort shoes.

 

 

Edited April 10, 2015

mf/ 7.24.18