Things to Know about Sever's Disease

Foot pain can affect people of any age, and children are no exception. In fact, there are some foot and ankle conditions that only impact children, like Sever's disease. If you suspect your child may be suffering from this condition, here are some things to know about the disease and how an ankle doctor in Conroe, TX, may be able to help.

What Is It?

Sever's disease happens when the growth plate in the heel becomes swollen and irritated. Since this growth plate is near the end of the bone where the growth mostly occurs, it makes this area more prone to injury because it's weaker than the rest of the bone. Fortunately, Sever's disease doesn't typically last too long and can usually be managed until it goes away after a few months.

What Are the Symptoms?

Your child will usually notice symptoms while engaging in physical activity or afterwards. There will be pain in one or both of the heels, which can sometimes lead to swelling or redness in the heel. Squeezing your child's heel with be painful and he or she might complain of having stiff feet first thing in the morning. In addition, your child may limp or walk on the tiptoes to avoid placing pressure on the heel.

What Causes Sever's?

Sever's disease occurs during a growth spurt, which is why it's only seen in children or teenagers. During the spurt the heel bone grows more quickly than the ligaments, muscles, and tendons in the leg. This causes the tendons and muscles to be stretched tight, which causes pain and swelling where the tendons attach to the heel. That's why the pain is more pronounced after running or jumping; the extra strain is hard for the overstretched tendons to handle.

Who Is At Risk?

Children between the ages of 8 and 15 suffer from this condition. It's more common in boys, and since their growth spurts are later they'll typically develop the condition between 10 and 15, as opposed to girls, who get it between ages 8 and 13. 

How Is It Treated?

Fortunately, Sever's disease is usually short-lived because eventually the tendons will catch up. A foot and ankle doctor in Conroe, TX, can diagnose the condition and will usually recommend ice, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications. They will also often recommend shoe inserts and stretching and strengthening exercises. Casting may be necessary to force the heel to rest in severe cases.