The Low Down on Sever's Disease

Severs' disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a condition that affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 who are going through a growth spurt. It is characterized by pain and inflammation in the heel, particularly in the back of the calcaneus. The condition is caused by the growth of bones outpacing the growth of soft tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Factors that contribute to the development of Sievers' disease include playing sports during the growth spurt, wearing restrictive footwear, and lack of attention to growth spurts in sports physicals. Treatment options include rest, immobilization, isometric exercises, motor control training, and dry needling. It is important to accurately diagnose the condition and tailor the treatment to the individual.