Video Explanation: Heel Pain & Sever's Disease – What Parents Need to Know

Heel pain in children, technically called Sever's disease (or calcaneal apophysitis), is the most common cause of heel pain in pediatric age. It typically affects children between 8 and 14 years old, especially those active in sports. **What exactly is it?** In children's heels, there's a growth plate (apophysis) where the Achilles tendon attaches. During growth, this area is particularly sensitive to mechanical stress. Intense sports activity, especially on hard surfaces or with inadequate shoes, can cause inflammation of this structure. **Why does it happen?** During the growth spurt, bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, which become "stretched." The Achilles tendon pulls on the calcaneal apophysis, causing repeated microtrauma and inflammation. Sports like soccer, basketball, and running are most frequently involved. **The good news:** Sever's disease is a self-limiting condition. This means it heals spontaneously when the growth plate closes, typically around age 14-15. It doesn't leave permanent consequences and doesn't increase the risk of future heel problems. **How it's managed:** Treatment is conservative. Relative rest (reduction of intense sports activity), ice after activity, calf stretching, cushioning heel pads, and sometimes anti-inflammatories. In rare cases of severe pain, a short period of immobilization may be necessary.