Sever’s Disease is an ominous name for
a simple inflammatory condition that affects the area where the
Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. It is most common
in children who are growing rapidly and involved in sports such
as soccer, basketball, and running. Your child’s bones
are growing at a faster rate than the tendon, resulting in extra
tension where the tendon attaches to the bone. Combine this
tightness with increased activity, and you get heel pain. If
your child is limping I recommend not allowing them to run. Pain
after activity is acceptable as long as you are working on the
following treatments.
A heel lift will help decrease strain on the tendon. I
prefer the heel cups because of the support
it provides and durability.
Stretching exercises are essential to decrease the tension
of the Achilles tendon pulling on the heel. These stretches
may be painful at first, start gently and increase the effort
as pain decreases. See bent knee
calf stretches and straight knee
calf stretches.
Ice is particularly effective for this condition.
An anti-inflammatory cream may help reduce the pain and inflammation. ProZ is a new product that contains ibuprofen
as well as a blend of homeopathic remedies.
Physical therapists can apply a treatment called iontophoresis, which is the use of an electrical current to apply
a steroid medication over the sore area.
Sever’s Disease is an ominous name for
a simple inflammatory condition that affects the area where the
Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. It is most common
in children who are growing rapidly and involved in sports such
as soccer, basketball, and running. Your child’s bones
are growing at a faster rate than the tendon, resulting in extra
tension where the tendon attaches to the bone. Combine this
tightness with increased activity, and you get heel pain. If
your child is limping I recommend not allowing them to run. Pain
after activity is acceptable as long as you are working on the
following treatments.