## Understanding Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children. It happens when the growth plate at the back of the heel bone becomes irritated and inflamed due to repeated stress—often from running, jumping, or sports activities. This condition is most common in kids between 7 and 15 years old, especially during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons.
The main symptom is pain in one or both heels, usually worse during or after physical activity. The pain might make it hard for kids to walk normally or participate in sports. While it can be uncomfortable, Sever’s disease is not serious and does not cause long-term damage. It goes away on its own once the growth plate closes as the child gets older.
## Goals of Treatment
The main goals for treating Sever’s disease are to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, allow healing of the growth plate, and help kids stay active as much as possible. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms while waiting for natural healing to occur.
## Common Treatments
### Rest and Activity Modification
One of the simplest ways to help heal Sever’s disease is by reducing activities that put stress on the heel—especially running and jumping sports like soccer or basketball. Sometimes just cutting back on these activities for a few weeks can make a big difference. In more severe cases, complete rest from sports may be needed until symptoms improve.
### Ice Application
Applying ice to the painful heel after activity can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Ice packs should be wrapped in a towel (never applied directly to skin) and used for about 15–20 minutes at a time.
### Proper Footwear
Wearing supportive shoes with good cushioning can take pressure off the heel. Shoes with stiff soles are often recommended because they limit how much the foot bends during walking or running—this reduces strain on the growth plate.
### Heel Pads or Orthotic Inserts
Special inserts (orthotics) that fit inside shoes can provide extra cushioning under the heel bone. Some orthotics are designed specifically for Sever’s disease; they help absorb shock and distribute weight more evenly across
