Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever’s Disease)

Calcaneal apophysitis is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 because the heel bone (calcaneus) is not fully developed until at least age 14. Until then, new bone forms at the growth plate (physis), a weak area located at the back of the heel. When there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop. The chances of a child developing heel pain can be reduced by avoiding unsupportive shoes, cleats, obesity, and activity beyond the child’s ability.

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Symptoms of Calcaneal Apophysitis:

• Pain in back or bottom of heel

• Limping

• Walking on toes

• Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities

• Pain when sides of heel are squeezed

• Tiredness

 

Treatment:

• Reduce/stop pain-causing activity

• Support the heel using shoe inserts or custom orthotic devices

• Oral pain and anti-inflammatory medications

• Physical therapy

• Immobilization using a cast