Understanding Sever's Disease

Kaycee Jones MS,RYT-200

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition affecting adolescents and young athletes who are experiencing growth spurts. Despite its name, Sever's disease is not an actual disease but rather an overuse injury that affects the growth plate in the child’s heel bone (calcaneus). This article aims to provide an informative overview of Sever's disease and highlight how Apolla compression socks can offer relief and support during the healing process.

What is Sever's Disease?

Sever's disease occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, pulls on the growth plate at the back of the heel. This condition typically affects physically active children between 8 and 15 years of age, especially those involved in sports such as soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and running or sports typically played on hard surfaces. During periods of rapid growth, the bones often grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, leading to tension and stress on the growth plate.

Cause of Sever's Disease

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a condition that commonly affects children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth. It is not actually a "disease" but rather an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone (calcaneus). The specific cause of Sever's disease is believed to be repetitive stress and tension on the growth plate due to various factors. Some contributing factors include:

1. Growth spurts: The growth plates in children's bones are vulnerable during periods of rapid growth. The heel bone's growth plate is susceptible to irritation and inflammation during this time.

2. Physical activity: Participation in sports or activities that involve repetitive impact on the heel, such as running, jumping, or other high-impact sports, can contribute to the development of Sever's disease.

3. Tight or inflexible Achilles tendon: A tight Achilles tendon can increase the stress on the growth plate. This tightness can result from factors such as inadequate stretching or overuse. Flat feet have also been known to be a leading factor.

4. Improper footwear: Ill-fitting or unsupportive footwear can contribute to the development of Sever's disease. Shoes that do not provide proper cushioning and support may increase the impact on the heel.

5. Biomechanical factors: Issues with foot mechanics, such as overpronation (rolling of the foot inward) or high arches, can contribute to increased stress on the heel.

 

Symptoms of Sever's Disease:

The most common cause of heel pain and sever’s disease include:

• Heel pain: Persistent pain at the back or bottom of the heel, particularly during or after physical activity.

• Limping: Children with Sever’s may favor the unaffected foot to alleviate pain while walking or running, which could lead to imbalance and unnecessary weight bearing.

• Tenderness and swelling: The heel area may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch.

• Stiffness: Decreased range of motion in the ankle joint may be experienced.

• Increased pain in severe cases during physical activities: Pain often intensifies during running, jumping, or other high-impact activities.

   

Diagnosing Sever's disease

Diagnosing Sever's disease typically involves a combination of a thorough medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes imaging studies. Here's how the diagnosis is typically made:

1. Medical History:

   • The healthcare provider will inquire about the child's symptoms, including the nature and location of the pain, its duration, and any factors that exacerbate or alleviate the pain.

   • Information about the child's activity level, participation in sports, and recent growth spurts will also be considered.

2. Physical Examination:

   • The healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination, focusing on the feet and heels.

   • They may check for tenderness, swelling, or redness around the heel area.

   • Range of motion and flexibility of the foot and ankle may be assessed.

   • The provider might observe the child's gait (walking pattern) to identify any abnormalities or signs of overpronation.

3. Palpation:

   • The healthcare provider may gently press on different areas of the heel to assess for tenderness and pinpoint the location of pain. The most common area of tenderness is at the back and sides of the heel.

4. Imaging Studies (if necessary):

   • In most cases, Sever's disease can be diagnosed based on the clinical presentation and physical examination. However, in some instances, imaging studies such as X-rays may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of heel pain and to assess the condition of the growth plate.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, orthopedic doctor, or sports medicine specialist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan. Sever's disease is typically a clinical diagnosis, and imaging studies are not always necessary unless there is uncertainty about the diagnosis or suspicion of other underlying issues.

 How Can Apolla Compression Socks Help?

Apolla compression socks are specifically designed to provide targeted compression and support to the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Similar to shoe inserts, orthotics, and heel lifts, these compression socks are like a supportive shoe and comforting sock all in one. Here's how they can aid in managing not only Sever's disease, but plantar fasciitis as well:

• Pain relief: The compression offered by Apolla socks helps to stabilize the foot and reduce inflammation, alleviating the discomfort associated with Sever's disease. Compression promotes increased blood flow, which aids in faster recovery and reduces pain sensations. 

• Arch support: Apolla compression socks provide firm arch support, which helps distribute the weight more evenly across the foot and reduce stress on the heel. This additional support reduces strain on the growth plate, allowing for a more comfortable and pain-free experience during physical activity.

• Cushioning and shock absorption: The socks feature strategically placed padding to absorb impact and reduce the strain on the heels. This feature is particularly beneficial for children involved in high-impact sports, where excessive stress on the heels is common.

• Enhanced stability: Apolla socks are designed to provide compression and support to the ankle joint. This stability aids in maintaining proper alignment and prevents excessive movement, reducing the risk of further injury and discomfort.

• Improved recovery: By increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation, Apolla compression socks can aid in the healing process. They provide a supportive environment for the foot, allowing the child to engage in physical activities while minimizing the risk of exacerbating Sever's disease.

Can my child still play sports?

If you suspect that your child has Sever's disease or is experiencing heel pain, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized advice. The following general considerations may help, but specific recommendations should come from a medical professional:

1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with a pediatrician, orthopedic doctor, or a healthcare professional experienced in musculoskeletal issues. They can assess your child's condition, confirm the diagnosis, and provide guidance on the appropriate course of action.

2. Activity Modification: Depending on the severity of the condition, the healthcare professional may recommend modifying your child's activities. This could involve reducing the intensity or frequency of sports activities that involve running and jumping.

3. Rest and Recovery: Rest is often a key component of managing Sever's disease. Your child may need to take a break from sports or certain activities to allow for healing. The healthcare professional can provide guidance on the duration of rest.

4. Treatment Options: Treatment may include non-operative options such as rest, orthotics, heel cups, stretching exercises, and, in some cases, immobilization. Your child's doctor will tailor the treatment plan based on the specific needs and severity of the condition.

5. Follow Medical Advice: Follow the medical advice and recommendations provided by the healthcare professional. Compliance with the prescribed treatment plan can significantly impact the recovery process, this may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a form of advil, motrin, ibuprofen or a typical over-the-counter aide.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once the symptoms improve and the healthcare professional gives the green light, a gradual return to sports activities may be possible. It's crucial not to rush the process and to monitor for any signs of discomfort or recurrence.

Remember that every child is unique, and the severity of Sever's disease can vary. The guidance provided by the healthcare professional will be based on a thorough assessment of your child's individual condition. Never hesitate to seek professional advice for your child's specific situation.

Sever's disease can be a painful condition for children and adolescents during periods of growth. While proper rest, stretching, and physical therapy are essential in managing the condition, Apolla compression socks can provide additional support and comfort. Their targeted compression, arch support, cushioning, and stability features contribute to pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved recovery. If your child is experiencing Sever's disease, consulting a healthcare professional and considering Apolla compression socks may be a beneficial step towards managing the condition and facilitating a smooth healing process.

Smith, J. M., & Varacallo, M. (2022, September 4). Sever Disease. Continuing Education Activity https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441928/