1. A Pain in the Heel
Sever's disease refers to the pain a child feels in her heel. This can occur between the ages of 8 and 15 in children who are athletic. The growth plate at the back of the heel experiences stress and becomes injured. The muscles and tendons become tightened as the bone grows at a quicker rate. This growth spurt inflames the heel area where the Achilles tendon is located. Overexercising and not wearing proper footwear can cause Sever's disease.
2. Take the Squeeze Test
Pain in the heel area doesn't automatically mean Sever's disease. Symptoms of this condition include pain and sensitivity to touch or when the heel is squeezed as well as pain during normal activities like walking or jumping. The pain can be in both heels, not just one, causing the child to walk with a limp. The child's heel will feel better when he rests it. An X-ray ordered will show any broken bones or injury to the heel growth plate.
3. Make Time to Heal
Follow the doctor's advice regarding treatment of Sever's disease. Rest is key to speeding recovery and cutting down on inflammation and further injury. Limit activity that stresses the heel. Elevate and ice the child's heel daily to reduce swelling. Use ice three times a day for about 20 minutes. In some cases, a cast is applied as treatment. The child should not walk around barefoot. Give her medications containing ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help deal with the heel pain. Sever's disease takes between 2 weeks and 2 months to heal, depending on the severity. The child should not resume sports until all pain is gone, and the doctor gives the okay.
4. Stretch it Out
Consult your child's doctor about exercises he can do to stretch and strengthen his heel. A physical therapist who specializes in sports injuries can be of assistance. Stretching increases flexibility and elongates the muscles of the calf and the hamstring. Encourage your child to stretch before and after playing sports or exercising.
5. An Ounce of Prevention
Prevent Sever's disease from returning by icing the heel after activities, wearing cushioned footwear, stretching the calves and Achilles tendon area and not running on hard surfaces. Allow the heel time to rest before starting a new activity. Use special shoe inserts or pads to relieve stress to the heel while providing additional support.
