What is Severs Disease?
Also know as calcaneal apophysitis. Mainly seen in active children 8 and 15 years old, the cause is inflammation of the growing area (apophysis) of the calcaneus (heel bone) which itself is caused by aggravation due to the pull on the attachment point of the Achilles tendon. A growth spurt may also contribute to the symptoms as this can increase tension on the attachment of the Achilles tendon. At approximately 15 years old, this growth area fuses to solid bone.
Symptoms
Symptoms include pain at the back of the heel at the insertion (attachment point) of the Achilles tendon; the pain will become more severe with increased activity. There may also be pain when squeezing the sides of the heel.
Treatments
• Cushioned heel pads to reduce shock through the heel and also lift the heel to reduce tension on the insertion of the Achilles tendon.
• Where over pronation is a contributory factor, the use of functional foot orthotics to re-align foot biomechanics.
