Calcaneal apophysitis aka Severs Disease

What is it?

Calcaneal apophysitis is the inflammation of the growth plate at the heel in children.

Who does it affect?

It is one of the most common causes of heel pain in growing children. 

 It commonly appears in children between the ages of 6 - 16 and who are very active.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Heel pain in one or both feet especially during running/jumping
• Tenderness/tightness to the back of the heel
• Swelling/Redness to the heel area
• Toe walking/Limping due to compensation
• Difficulty/discomfort when walking/running

What is the cause?

• High activity levels – repetitive stress from running/jumping
• Growth spurts – due to muscles becoming tight and struggling to keep up with the length of long bones
• Flat and unsupportive footwear

How do we treat it?

CA is treatment varies to the specific case that presents. Most cases resolve within a few weeks with the correct treatment. This can include:

• Icing the heel
• Anti – inflammatory medications
• supportive footwear
• reduction in activity 
• muscle stretching and strengthening 

In severe cases orthotics may be needed.