Calcaneal apophysitis, commonly known as Sever's disease, is a painful condition of the heel that affects growing children and adolescents. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel (calcaneus) becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. This condition is especially prevalent during growth spurts when bones, muscles, and tendons are rapidly changing.
Symptoms of Sever's disease include heel pain, particularly during or after physical activity, limping, tenderness or swelling at the heel, and difficulty walking or running. Factors contributing to its development include sports that involve running and jumping, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues like flat feet or high arches.
Treatment for Sever's disease focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. This typically includes rest from activities that aggravate the condition, icing the heel, gentle stretching exercises, and using supportive footwear or orthotics to alleviate pressure on the heel. In severe cases, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. With appropriate treatment and adjustments in activity level, most children recover fully from Sever's disease without long-term complications.