Sever's disease (heel pain in active kids)

Overview

The heel bone's growth plate gets irritated where the Achilles tendon pulls on it during running and jumping.

Pain is worse during and after sports and gets better with rest.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Heel pain in an active child

Less common

• Limping after sports

When to get medical care

Causes

Growth plate stress.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Active kids

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Treatment

Ease activity.

Self-care

• Ice
• Heel cups
• Calf stretches

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Stretch calves
• Wear shoes with good heel padding

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your child's pediatrician.
• They may send you to a pediatric specialist: an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most children can go to daycare or school as usual.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Active kids ages 8 to 14: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
• Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
• Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Goes away.

It goes away when the growth plate closes.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• When can my child return to sports?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sever's disease (heel pain in active kids)