Does your child complain about heel pain—especially after sport or running around? It might not be growing pains. One of the most common causes of heel discomfort in active kids is a condition called Sever’s disease.
At Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic, we often see children experiencing this condition, especially those between the ages of 8 and 14 who play high-impact sports. With early intervention and the right treatment approach, it’s highly manageable.
What is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease (also called calcaneal apophysitis) is an overuse injury that affects the growth plate in the heel. During growth spurts, the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can stretch. This creates stress at the back of the heel, leading to pain and inflammation.
It’s not actually a disease—but a temporary condition that’s part of growth. However, it can be quite painful and impact your child’s ability to stay active.
Signs and Symptoms
If your child is dealing with Sever’s disease, you may notice:
- Pain at the back or bottom of the heel
- Limping or walking on tiptoes
- Discomfort after running, jumping, or sports
- Tenderness when the heel is squeezed on the sides
- Stiffness first thing in the morning
Symptoms often worsen with activity and ease with rest.
Why Active Kids Are at Risk
Children who play sports that involve a lot of running, jumping, or quick changes in direction—such as football, netball, or athletics—are more likely to develop Sever’s disease.
This is especially common during growth spurts when the heel bone is still developing. Combine that with tight calves or poor foot biomechanics, and the risk increases significantly.
How We Treat Sever’s Disease at Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic
Our team of podiatrists take a personalised approach to managing Sever’s disease. We focus on reducing pain, improving function, and preventing
recurrence.
Treatment may include:
- Activity modification: Reducing high-impact activities temporarily while healing begins
- Stretching programmes: Gentle stretching of calves and Achilles tendon to ease tightness
- Footwear advice: Recommending supportive shoes to reduce strain on the heel
- Custom orthotics: Our in-house lab allows us to create personalised orthotics—such as 3D printed or Voxelcare options—that reduce heel pressure and correct foot posture
- Shockwave therapy: In some cases, we may recommend this non-invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and encourage healing
- Dry needling or laser therapy: For persistent discomfort, these advanced options can help accelerate recovery
Every child’s condition is different. That’s why our podiatrists will tailor treatment based on their level of activity, growth stage, and foot mechanics.
When to Seek Help
If your child has been complaining of heel pain for more than a few days—or it keeps coming back—it’s time to get it checked. Ignoring symptoms may prolong recovery or cause your child to change how they walk, leading to further issues.
The earlier we intervene, the quicker your child can get back to doing what they love.
Prevention Tips for Parents
While Sever’s disease can’t always be avoided, you can reduce your child’s risk with a few simple steps:
- Make sure they wear supportive, well-fitting shoes
- Encourage daily stretching, especially during growth spurts
- Avoid sudden increases in activity levels
- Monitor for signs of discomfort or changes in how they walk or run