Severs Disease

Severs disease is a problem that occurs at the back of the heel in those under the ages of about 12-15 years. The cause of the pain is considered to be a strain in the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. It does not occur after the age of 15 as the growth plate merges to the rest of the heel bone. The main symptom of Severs disease is pain at the back of the heel, that is worse on activity. Severs disease is also painful on squeezing the sides of the heel bone towards the back.

Severs disease is more common in children that are active especially on hard sports grounds, so it is assumed that this overuse is the most likely cause. Tight calf muscles and poor foot posture has also been implicated in Severs Disease.

Generally the treatment for Severs Disease is a reduction or cut back in physical activity levels, stretching for the calf muscles and the use of a cushioned heel raise. Sometimes foot orthotics are used to correct the foot posture.

Croydon Total Footcare can offer advice to those with Severs Disease.