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Understanding Sever's Disease in Active Children

At Swan Podiatry and Orthotics, with clinics in both Darwin and Katherine, we frequently encounter Sever’s disease, a common cause of heel pain in growing, active children. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, this condition primarily affects children between the ages of 8 and 14, coinciding with periods of rapid growth during childhood and adolescence. Sever's disease is often considered a "growing pain," but it is a treatable condition that should not be overlooked.


The condition is caused by tension and micro trauma of the Achilles tendon where it attaches to the growth plate at the back of the heel. During growth spurts, this area becomes particularly vulnerable as the growth plate is weaker than the surrounding tendons and muscles.


Children who are involved in sports like running or jumping are especially susceptible due to the repetitive stress placed on their developing skeletal structures. Poor foot biomechanics or alignment can also increase the risk. Symptoms often include discomfort or pain at the back of the heel, which can worsen with physical activity, making it important to address the condition promptly.


Call our Darwin-based team on 0428 976 360 to make a booking and address this issue promptly.

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A Person Is Kneeling Down on The Floor and Touching Their Foot — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT

Treatment Approaches for Sever's Disease

At Swan Podiatry and Orthotics, our approach to treating Sever’s disease focuses on relieving pain and preventing recurrence. A key part of this treatment involves stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles. These exercises help reduce tension on the Achilles tendon, allowing the growth plate in the heel to heal without the added strain from physical activity. Additionally, we may recommend orthotics to address any biomechanical issues in the foot. Custom orthotics can provide crucial support, reduce strain on the heel, and improve overall foot function, enabling children to continue their activities more comfortably.


Heel raises are another useful option to alleviate tension by slightly lifting the heel and reducing the Achilles tendon’s pull on the heel bone. We may also advise you to make modifications in your child's footwear, ensuring that they have adequate cushioning and stability, particularly for sports activities. In some cases, adjusting activity levels may be necessary to support healing, though a complete stop is often not required.


If your child is experiencing heel pain, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Swan Podiatry and Orthotics. Our team will develop a personalised treatment plan to help your child return to their favourite activities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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  • What is Sever’s disease?

    Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those aged 8-14. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress, often from physical activity. This condition is temporary and typically resolves as the child’s bones mature.



  • What are the symptoms of Sever’s disease?

    The primary symptom of Sever’s disease is pain in the heel, especially during or after physical activity. Children may also experience tenderness when the heel is touched, swelling or difficulty walking. The pain often worsens with running or jumping and improves with rest.

  • How is Sever’s disease treated?

    Treatment for Sever’s disease focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. Common approaches include rest, icing the heel, stretching exercises and wearing supportive footwear or orthotics to reduce strain on the heel. In more severe cases, temporary activity modification or physical therapy may be recommended to manage symptoms.

  • Can Sever’s disease be prevented?

    While Sever’s disease can’t always be prevented, taking steps to minimise stress on the heel can help reduce the risk. This includes ensuring children wear supportive footwear, avoiding overtraining in sports and encouraging stretching exercises to keep the Achilles tendon and calf muscles flexible. Proper foot care and regular check-ups with a podiatrist can also help manage and prevent symptoms.