If your child has started to complain of heel pain, especially after running, jumping or playing sports, it might be something called Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysitis).
Despite the name, it’s not a disease at all. It’s a common cause of heel pain in active children, especially those going through growth spurts.
When children grow, the bones, muscles and tendons don’t always keep pace with each other.
The heel bone can grow faster than the surrounding soft tissues, putting stress on the growth plate at the back of the heel. This can lead to pain, swelling, or tenderness that’s worse after activity and eases with rest.
Typical symptoms can include:
- Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
- Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid pressure
- Soreness after sport or running
With the right guidance, most children recover fully without long-term problems. Reducing impact, gentle stretching, supportive footwear, and a tailored exercise programme can all make a big difference.
At Altrincham Physiotherapy, we can assess your child, identify the cause of their pain, and guide them safely back to the activities they love.
Click below to download a helpful leaflet from Kids Back 2 Sport with more information on Calcaneal Apophysitis. Give us a call or pop into the clinic to have a chat with our physios.
If your child is struggling with pain, book a consultation with us today. Our team has experience in supporting young people through recovery.
Book online at altrinchamphysio.co.uk
