Could my Child Have Growing Pains? Assessing Children for Sever's Disease and the Solution for it!

At Hip to Sole Podiatry, we often see energetic kids and teens who love to run, jump, and play—until sudden heel pain holds them back. One of the most common causes of heel pain in growing children is Sever’s Disease, a condition that’s temporary but can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. The good news? With the right care, your child can get back to pain-free movement and doing what they love.

What Is Sever’s Disease?

Despite its name, Sever’s Disease isn’t a disease in the typical sense. It’s a growth-related condition that affects the heel bone (calcaneus), specifically at the point where the Achilles tendon attaches. During growth spurts—usually between the ages of 8 and 14—the heel bone can grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, creating tension, inflammation, and pain.

Who’s at Risk?

Sever’s is most commonly seen in:

• Active children who play sports like soccer, netball, basketball, gymnastics, or athletics

• Kids with flat feet or high arches, which can put extra strain on the heel

• Children wearing unsupportive shoes or those who have outgrown their footwear

  
  

Symptoms to Look Out For

You might notice your child:

• Complaining of heel pain, especially after running or playing

• Limping or walking on their toes to avoid heel pressure

• Experiencing tenderness, swelling, or redness at the back of the heel

• Feeling better after rest (a helpful clue that it's activity-related)

  
  

Why Foot Mechanics Matter

Your child’s biomechanics—the way their feet and legs move—can directly impact the development of Sever’s Disease. Conditions like overpronation (feet rolling inward) or supination (feet rolling outward) can increase stress on the heel, particularly during high-impact activities.

Even subtle misalignments can lead to persistent symptoms if not addressed early.

How We Treat Sever’s Disease at Hip to Sole

At Hip to Sole Podiatry, we take a comprehensive, child-friendly approach to treatment. Our care plans often include:

• Supportive footwear advice tailored to your child’s activity level and foot type

• Custom orthotics to correct imbalances and reduce pressure on the heel

• Stretches and strengthening exercises, especially for the calves and Achilles

• Activity modification, allowing time for the heel to heal without complete rest

• Cold therapy and anti-inflammatory care to manage pain and swelling

With the right support, Sever’s Disease can be effectively managed—and in most cases, kids return to full activity without long-term issues.

Prevention Starts at Home

Here’s how you can support your child’s foot health:

• Choose properly fitted, supportive shoes—especially for sports

• Encourage warm-ups and cool-downs before and after activity

• Pay attention to any signs of limping or pain after sport

• Book a biomechanical assessment if you notice changes in walking or running

  
  

Need Help with Your Child’s Heel Pain?

Heel pain isn’t something growing kids need to “push through.” At Hip to Sole Podiatry, we’re here to help your child move pain free.