Items filtered by date: December 2025

Sever’s disease is a common heel condition that affects children during growth spurts when the heel bone develops faster than the surrounding tissues. This imbalance leads to irritation at the growth plate and causes noticeable discomfort during activity. Risk factors include high-impact sports, tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and having flat feet or high arches. Symptoms often begin with heel pain, tenderness, swelling, and limping after play. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a detailed exam and recommend conservative treatments such as stretching, footwear guidance, and activity changes to reduce strain on the heel. Early care prevents prolonged discomfort and supports healthy development. If your active child has consistent heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, ensuring your child can safely return to sporting activities.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.