Sever’s Disease: A Common Cause of Heel Pain in Children

If your child is active and suddenly starts limping, avoiding sports, or complaining about heel pain—especially after practice or play—it could be more than just growing pains. One of the most common causes of heel pain in growing children is Sever’s Disease, also known as Sever Syndrome or calcaneal apophysitis.

As a Board-Certified Podiatrist, I’m Dr. Neda Arjomandi, and I specialize in treating pediatric and adult foot and ankle conditions at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, located in Laguna Hills, Orange County. Sever’s Disease is a very treatable condition, and with the right care, your child can return to their favorite activities pain-free.

What Is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s Disease is not actually a disease—it's a temporary but painful inflammation of the growth plate in the heel(calcaneus). This growth plate is made of cartilage and is softer than bone, making it more vulnerable to stress. As children go through growth spurts, especially between ages 8 to 14, the Achilles tendon may pull tightly on the heel’s growth plate, causing discomfort and swelling.

This condition is especially common in physically active children, and although it can be concerning for parents, it’s important to know that it does not cause permanent damage when managed properly.

Who Is at Risk?

Sever’s Disease is frequently seen in:

• Children between the ages of 8 and 14
• Those involved in high-impact sports such as soccer, gymnastics, basketball, track, or dance
• Children going through rapid growth spurts
• Kids with flat feet, high arches, or tight calf muscles
• Children who wear unsupportive footwear
• Overweight children or those carrying extra weight on their feet

Signs and Symptoms

Children with Sever’s Disease often experience:

• Heel pain that worsens during or after physical activity
• Tenderness and swelling at the back or bottom of the heel
• Limping, walking on tiptoe, or favoring one foot
• Stiffness in the foot or ankle, especially in the morning
• Difficulty with physical activities that used to be easy

Pain can affect one or both heels and typically improves with rest.

How I Diagnose Sever’s Disease

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, I start with a comprehensive physical exam and medical history. During the evaluation, I check for heel tenderness, Achilles tightness, and foot structure. In most cases, imaging like X-rays isn’t necessary, but I may use them to rule out other conditions like stress fractures or infections.

As a pediatric podiatrist in Laguna Hills, I make sure the diagnostic process is gentle, child-friendly, and informative for parents.

Treatment for Sever’s Disease

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and help your child return to regular activity without discomfort.

My treatment plan may include:

• Rest: Temporarily reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the pain
• Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the heel to reduce swelling after activity
• Stretching exercises: Focused on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles
• Heel lifts or orthotics: To reduce tension on the heel and improve foot alignment
• Supportive footwear: Well-cushioned shoes with proper heel support
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Such as ibuprofen, if needed and appropriate
• Activity modification: Recommending lower-impact sports like swimming or cycling during recovery

How long does recovery take?

Most children recover in 6 to 12 weeks, although this can vary based on the severity of the condition and compliance with the treatment plan. It’s important to note that Sever’s Disease is temporary and usually resolves once the growth plates close during adolescence.

Can Sever’s Disease Be Prevented?

While it can't always be avoided, you can help reduce the risk of your child developing Sever’s Disease by:

• Providing supportive shoes, especially for sports
• Encouraging daily stretching, especially during growth spurts
• Limiting repetitive impact activities on hard surfaces
• Using custom orthotics if your child has flat feet or abnormal foot alignment
• Promoting healthy body weight and nutrition

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

If your child is experiencing persistent or recurring heel pain, limping, or avoiding physical activity, it's important to have their feet evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist. Early diagnosis and care help prevent further discomfort and ensure a full recovery.

As a Board-Certified Podiatrist, I, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, am dedicated to helping children and families understand and manage foot conditions with a combination of medical expertise and compassionate care. I have extensive experience treating Sever’s Disease and other pediatric foot conditions at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, conveniently located in Laguna Hills, Orange County.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’re concerned your child may have Sever’s Disease or any other foot or ankle condition, don’t wait to seek help.

📞 Call us today at (949) 581-2520
🌐 Visit us at www.lagunawoodspodiatrygroup.com
📍 Located in Laguna Hills, serving all of Orange County and nearby areas

Proudly Serving Families in Laguna Hills and Beyond

Dr. Neda Arjomandi proudly serves patients in Laguna Hills and surrounding communities within a 15-mile radius, including:
Laguna Woods, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, Dana Point, Tustin, San Juan Capistrano, Trabuco Canyon, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Foothill Ranch