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Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those involved in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping. This condition typically affects children between the ages of eight and 14, during growth spurts when the bones grow faster than the muscles and tendons. Symptoms include heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, often worsening with activity and improving with rest. Children may limp, walk on their toes, or complain of stiffness in the heel, particularly after sports or physical play. A podiatrist can diagnose Sever’s disease through a physical exam and a review of the child’s activity level and medical history. Treatment focuses on rest, stretching exercises, heel cushions, and custom orthotics to reduce strain and support healing. If you think your child may have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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 office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Stretching exercises can help ease aching feet caused by long hours of standing, walking, or wearing shoes with inadequate support. When muscles in the feet and ankles are overworked, they may feel sore or tight. Simple movements like ankle circles, toe spreads, or heel raises can help reduce discomfort by improving flexibility and restoring blood flow. For example, pointing and flexing the foot or performing toe scrunches can help relieve tension across the arches. Calf stretches are also useful, as tight calves can add stress to the feet. A podiatrist may evaluate your foot posture, walking mechanics, and muscle tightness before recommending a specific foot exercise plan. In some cases, foot pain may be linked to issues like poor alignment or structural problems. This may require more advanced care, including orthotics or surgery. If your feet are aching at the end of the day, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, suggested exercises, and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.