Sever's Disease Treatment
Specialist treatment for heel pain in active children and adolescents. We help young athletes recover quickly and return to sport safely.
HCPC Registered Chiropodists & Podiatrists · Royal College of Podiatry Member · Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow · MCSP Chartered Physiotherapist · Physio First Member · BUPA & WPA Recognised
What is Sever's Disease?
Sever's disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, typically between ages 8-14. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress.
Despite its name, Sever's disease isn't really a disease. It's an overuse injury that's particularly common in active children who play sports involving running and jumping. With proper treatment, it resolves completely without long-term effects.
Common Symptoms
- Pain in one or both heels
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Limping or walking on toes
- Pain when the heel is squeezed
- Stiffness in the foot when waking
- Swelling or redness at the heel
Common Causes
- Growth spurts (bones grow faster than muscles)
- High-impact sports (football, basketball, gymnastics)
- Cleated shoes on hard surfaces
- Overpronation or flat feet
- Tight Achilles tendon
- Being overweight
How We Treat Sever's Disease
We understand how frustrating heel pain is for active children who want to play sport. Our approach balances symptom relief with keeping your child as active as possible, while the growth plate matures. Cushioned heel support and, where needed, custom orthotics reduce the traction on the growth plate during sport.
Heel Cushions/Cups
Immediate pain relief by cushioning and elevating the heel.
Stretching Programme
Gentle stretches for the calf and Achilles tendon to reduce tension.
Activity Modification
Guidance on managing sport participation during recovery.
Custom Orthotics
For children with biomechanical issues contributing to the condition.
Ready to get sever's disease treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Pain is affecting your child's activities
- Your child is limping or avoiding sport
- Pain persists despite rest
- Swelling or redness is present
- Pain is in both heels
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Sever's Disease at Lower Limb Clinic.
Further Reading
In-depth guides from our clinicians on this and related topics.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast
Get Expert Treatment
- Same-week appointments available
- No GP referral needed
- MSc-qualified specialists
Related Conditions
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Get specialist Sever's Disease treatment at your nearest Belfast clinic
Lisburn Road Clinic
385 Lisburn Road, BT9 7EP
Ormeau Road Clinic
373 Ormeau Road, BT7 3GP
We serve patients from across Belfast and Northern Ireland including East Belfast, South Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Dundonald, Carryduff, Hillsborough, and Comber.