Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition affecting growing children, particularly those who are physically active. It is a type of overuse injury that causes pain and swelling in the heel. The pain is caused by the growth plate in the heel bone (calcaneus) becoming inflamed.

Chiropractic and physiotherapy care can help to treat and prevent Sever’s disease. The following are some of the ways these forms of care can help:

1. Pain management: Chiropractors and physiotherapists can help to manage the pain and discomfort associated with Sever’s disease through a variety of techniques, including manual therapy, stretching and exercise, and the use of ice or heat therapy.
2. Stretching and exercise: A chiropractor or physiotherapist can recommend specific exercises and stretches to help alleviate the pain and improve flexibility in the heel and surrounding muscles. These exercises may include calf raises, heel raises, and stretches for the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
3. Footwear assessment: Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes can help to reduce the stress on the heel and prevent further damage. A chiropractor or physiotherapist can evaluate the fit and support of a patient’s shoes and recommend appropriate changes if necessary.
4. Gait analysis: An evaluation of a patient’s walking or running gait can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to Sever’s disease. A chiropractor or physiotherapist can make recommendations to improve gait patterns and reduce the stress on the heel.
5. Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can help to distribute the weight and pressure more evenly throughout the foot, reducing the strain on the heel and preventing further injury.

In addition to chiropractic and physiotherapy care, other treatments for Sever’s disease may include rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. In severe cases, a doctor may also recommend the use of crutches or a cast to reduce weight-bearing activity and allow the heel to heal.

In conclusion, chiropractic and physiotherapy care can be extremely helpful for treating and preventing Sever’s disease. These forms of care can help to manage pain, improve flexibility and function, and prevent further injury. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if your child experiences pain or discomfort in the heel, as early intervention can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.