Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever’s Disease) Treatment in Brunswick

Heel pain in active kids is more common than you thinkn

Is your child limping after sport? Avoiding running or jumping? Complaining of heel pain, especially when walking on tiptoes? These are classic signs of calcaneal apophysitis (Sever’s Disease), one of the most common causes of heel pain in children aged 8 to 15.

Calcaneal apophysitis is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It typically occurs during periods of rapid growth, when the bones grow faster than the muscles and tendons can keep up—placing strain on the heel.

What Causes Sever’s Disease?

This condition is most often triggered by repetitive impact activities, such as running, jumping, or playing sport on hard surfaces. Common risk factors include:

Tight calf muscles
Limited ankle flexibility
Flat feet or high arches
Walking on tiptoes
Increased training load or intensity
Going barefoot on hard surfaces
Poor footwear or unsupportive school shoes

The condition can affect one or both heels and tends to flare during or after physical activity. Without proper treatment, it can persist for months and cause unnecessary distress and reduced activity levels in otherwise healthy kids.

How to Recognise Sever’s Disease

Symptoms may include:

Pain at the back or underside of the heel
Limping or toe-walking
Pain during running, jumping, or walking uphill
Heel tenderness when squeezed from both sides
Discomfort when wearing hard or tight shoes
Stiffness in the foot or ankle, especially in the morning

If your child is between the ages of 8 and 15 and complains of heel pain, it’s important to consider Sever’s Disease until ruled out.

Our 6-Phase Approach to Treating Sever’s Disease

Every child is unique, so we tailor treatment based on age, foot type, activity level, and symptoms. Our podiatry-led management includes the following key steps:

1. Protect the Heel

We use soft, shock-absorbing heel cups or orthotics and apply supportive kinesiology taping to reduce stress on the heel. Activity modification is essential in early stages—high-impact sports may need to be paused temporarily.

2. Address Foot Biomechanics

Flat feet or overly high arches can overload the heel. If biomechanical issues are contributing, we may recommend custom or prefabricated orthotics to redistribute pressure and support healthy foot alignment.

3. Improve Joint Mobility

Restricted joint motion can worsen foot mechanics. Joint mobilisation, soft tissue release, and electrotherapy may be used to restore natural movement and reduce pain.

4. Strengthen Supporting Muscles

Weak or unbalanced muscles in the calves, thighs, or hips affect how the foot absorbs impact. A personalised exercise program helps improve control, reduce strain, and support recovery.

5. Review Running and Landing Technique

Poor running mechanics can lead to reinjury. We assess movement patterns and provide advice to improve shock absorption and reduce heel stress. Avoiding barefoot activity on hard ground is also recommended.

6. Assess Footwear

Heavy or unsupportive shoes can worsen symptoms. We guide parents in choosing the right school and sports shoes to support growing feet, reduce pressure, and prevent future flare-ups.

Long-Term Outlook

The good news? Sever’s Disease is self-limiting and resolves completely once the growth plate fuses—usually by mid to late adolescence. However, if left untreated, it may lead to heel deformity or long-term biomechanical problems such as:

Plantar fasciitis
Heel spurs
Achilles tendinopathy
Blistering or shoe-fitting issues
Muscle tightness and reduced performance

Early diagnosis and proper podiatry care are key to a full, pain-free recovery.

When to Seek Help

Book an appointment if your child:

Complains of heel pain during or after activity
Starts limping or avoiding sport
Walks on their toes to avoid pressure
Has a noticeable bump or tenderness at the heel

With timely assessment and treatment, most children recover fully and return to sport safely.

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Have Questions About Podiatry?

We’re here to make it simple. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing foot pain or just unsure if podiatry is right for you, we’re happy to guide you — no pressure, just clear answers.