Condition
Sever's disease (heel pain in active children)
Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children and teenagers, caused by the growth plate at the heel being overloaded during growth spurts and sport.
It is not harmful in the long term and settles with the right management, though it can be sore and frustrating while it lasts. Most children can stay in sport with some adjustments.
Common symptoms
- Heel pain during or after sport, in a child or young teen
- Limping after activity, or tenderness when the heel is squeezed
How it's treated
Treatment starts by confirming the diagnosis and reassuring the family, then setting a plan: activity and load guidance, calf flexibility, footwear, and heel cushioning or support where useful. The aim is to keep your child in sport as much as possible while it settles.
Common questions
Can my child keep playing sport?
Often yes, with managed load. You'll get guidance on how much.
Will it cause lasting damage?
No. Sever's settles as the growth plate matures.
How long does it last?
It varies, and can come and go during growth spurts. The right load management keeps it manageable.
