Sever's Disease: Heel Pain in Young Athletes

Heel Pain Sideline Your Young Athlete?
It Could Be Sever’s Disease 

Football boots are back on, netball courts are buzzing, and kids all over Perth are sprinting, jumping and training again. But if your child has started complaining of sore heels after sport, there’s a good chance it could be Sever’s disease - one of the most common causes of heel pain in active kids. 

Despite the scary name, Sever’s disease isn’t actually a disease at all. It’s a growth-related heel pain that happens when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated. It’s especially common in sporty kids aged around 8-15 years during growth spurts. Running and jumping sports like AFL, soccer, basketball and netball are common triggers. 

What does it feel like? 

Parents often notice their child limping after sport, complaining of sore heels after training or games, walking on tiptoes, saying their heels hurt when squeezed, or suddenly losing enthusiasm for sport they usually love. 

Why does it happen? 

As kids grow, their bones can grow faster than their muscles and tendons can keep up. Tight calf muscles and repeated pulling from the Achilles tendon can place stress on the heel growth plate. Hard playing surfaces, flat feet, hypermobility, poor footwear and busy sports schedules can all add fuel to the fire. 

The good news! 

Sever’s disease is very treatable and doesn’t cause long-term damage. The aim is to calm the irritation down while keeping kids as active and comfortable as possible. 

Simple things that can help

Supportive footwear (avoid flimsy shoes and barefoot walking), ice after sport, calf stretches, reducing training loads temporarily, heel raises or cushioning inserts, and custom orthotics in some cases. The earlier it’s treated, the quicker kids can usually get back to doing what they love. 

When should you see a podiatrist? 

If heel pain is lingering for more than a couple of weeks, causing limping, or stopping your child from participating in sport, it’s worth getting assessed. Sometimes heel pain in kids can mimic other conditions, so an accurate diagnosis is important. 

At Junction Foot & Ankle Group, our podiatrists regularly help young athletes manage Sever’s disease with tailored treatment plans to keep them moving comfortably throughout the sporting season. If your child is struggling with heel pain this season, book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today.

Call us on 9250 1676 or head to our website to book online.