Winter Sports are into full swing, with primary school soccer being one of the biggest participation sports in the country.  School sport is a load of fun, and is welcomed by all parents as a way of getting the kids out of the house and being active.  However, of this group of kids getting into active Winter Sports, a small percentage will start to develop Heel Pain – without any real warning. So what’s going on?

If a child develops heel pain with sport – the chances are fairly high they may be suffering from Sever’s Disease.

WHAT IS SEVER’S DISEASE?

Sever’s disease or Calcaneal Apophysitis is a common type of heel pain affecting children.

Children generally complain of pain in the back of the heel during or after physical activity, which usually settles with rest.

Symptoms can persist for as long as one to two years and often occur during a rapid period of growth.

It is not yet known why children experience pain around the growth plate. It is accepted that X-rays or scans will not always help diagnose the problem but they might be appropriate to help rule out other injuries.

SO HOW DO YOU TREAT SEVER’S DISEASE?

There is very little research into the best way to treat Sever’s disease. The evidence suggests that shoe inserts, custom made orthotics or taping can improve pain.

The Physiotherapists at Leading Edge Physiotherapy take a holistic approach and use these therapies, in conjunction with other treatments, to help manage pain and keep kids with Sever’s disease active.

Other treatments may include:

• Education and advice regarding Sever’s disease
• Prescribing stretches and/or strengthening exercises
• Hand on treatment such as joint mobilisation, manipulation or massage
• Ultrasound or other modalities
• Advice regarding footwear
• Practical tips regarding sport, exercise and physical activity
• Fitting with shoe inserts or referring on to Podiatry for orthotics
• Referring to the GP for X-rays or further investigations

I THINK MY CHILD MAY HAVE HEEL PAIN – WHAT DO I DO NOW?

If you are concerned about your child has heel pain, you can BOOK ONLINE to see any Leading Edge Physiotherapist and they can assess your child to ascertain if they have Sever’s Disease. They can then implement a management plan to have your child pain free as soon as possible.