Understanding Sever’s Disease

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. This condition occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and overuse. Unlike other parts of the body, the heel bone in children grows faster than the muscles and tendons in the leg. This discrepancy can cause the tendons to become tight, leading to increased pressure on the growth plate. Sever’s disease typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 and can significantly impact their ability to participate in physical activities.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of Sever’s Disease:

• Heel Pain:
  • Primary symptom.
  • Typically felt at the back or bottom of the heel.
  • Worsens during or after physical activities such as running, jumping, or playing sports.
  • Pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain.
• Swelling:
  • May occur in the heel area.
  • Can be accompanied by redness and warmth.
• Tenderness:
  • The heel is often tender to touch.
  • Increased sensitivity in the affected area.
• Limping or Difficulty Walking:
  • Due to the pain, children may limp or have trouble walking.
  • They might avoid putting weight on the affected heel.
• Stiffness:
  • Heel stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • May cause difficulty in moving the foot properly.

Diagnosis of Sever’s Disease:

• Physical Examination:
  • Conducted by a podiatrist.
  • Includes assessing the range of motion and checking for areas of tenderness.
  • Evaluation of gait and posture to understand how the child walks.
• Medical History:
  • Review of the child’s medical history and daily activities.
  • Includes questions about recent growth spurts, physical activities, and previous injuries.
• Imaging Tests:
  • X-rays: Used to rule out other conditions such as fractures or infections.
  • MRI or Ultrasound: May be recommended in complex cases for a detailed view of the growth plate and surrounding structures.
• Pain Assessment:
  • Evaluation of pain intensity, duration, and triggers.
  • Helps in differentiating Sever’s disease from other causes of heel pain.
• Observation of Symptoms:
  • Monitoring the pattern and progression of symptoms.
  • Includes noting the times when pain is more pronounced (e.g., after sports or in the morning).

Initial Consultation at Bayshore Podiatry Center

Scheduling an Appointment

Booking an appointment with Bayshore Podiatry Center is the first step toward relieving your child’s heel pain. Our dedicated staff is committed to providing prompt and convenient scheduling options to address your child’s needs as quickly as possible. You can call our office during business hours to speak with our friendly receptionist, who will assist you in finding a suitable appointment time. Alternatively, you can use our online booking system, available 24/7, to schedule an appointment at your convenience.

Comprehensive Examination

During the initial consultation, our experienced podiatrists will conduct a comprehensive examination of your child’s foot and ankle. This includes assessing the range of motion, checking for areas of tenderness, and evaluating gait and posture. We take the time to understand your child’s symptoms, medical history, and daily activities to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Our thorough approach ensures that we identify the root cause of the pain and develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.

Diagnostic Imaging

To confirm the diagnosis of Sever’s disease and rule out other potential issues, we may utilize advanced diagnostic imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasound. These tools allow us to visualize the growth plate and surrounding structures in detail, providing a clearer picture of the condition. Diagnostic imaging helps us to pinpoint the exact location and extent of the inflammation, enabling us to tailor our treatment plan to your child’s specific needs. Our state-of-the-art imaging technology ensures that we have all the necessary information to provide the best possible care.

Treatment Options for Sever’s Disease

Rest and Activity Modification

The cornerstone of treating Sever’s disease is reducing the stress on the heel by modifying your child’s activities. This often involves recommending rest and avoiding high-impact sports and exercises that exacerbate the pain. Encouraging your child to take breaks during physical activities and gradually reintroducing them to their regular routine can help alleviate symptoms. We may also suggest alternative low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, to keep your child active without putting additional strain on the heel.

Physical Therapy and Stretching Exercises

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of Sever’s disease. Our physical therapists will design a customized exercise program tailored to your child’s specific needs. This program will include stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, as well as strengthening exercises to support the foot and ankle. These exercises help reduce tension on the heel and promote proper biomechanics, aiding in the healing process. Our therapists will guide your child through each exercise, ensuring proper form and technique to maximize benefits.

Orthotic Devices and Supportive Footwear

Using orthotic devices such as heel cups, pads, or custom insoles can provide additional support and cushioning to the heel. These devices help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce the strain on the growth plate. Supportive footwear with good arch support and shock-absorbing soles can also help alleviate pain and prevent further irritation of the growth plate. Our podiatrists will recommend the most suitable orthotic devices and footwear for your child, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.

Recovery and Long-Term Management

Monitoring Progress

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your child’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we schedule periodic check-ups to track improvements in symptoms and ensure that your child is on the right path to recovery. During these visits, we will evaluate your child’s response to treatment, make necessary adjustments, and address any concerns that may arise. Our commitment to continuous care ensures that your child receives the support they need throughout their recovery journey.

Preventative Measures

To prevent a recurrence of Sever’s disease, it’s important to implement preventative measures that reduce the risk of future flare-ups. Maintaining flexibility and strength in the lower leg muscles through regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help. Ensuring that your child wears appropriate, supportive footwear during physical activities is also crucial. Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of activities, rather than making sudden changes, can prevent excessive strain on the heel. Our team will provide you with comprehensive guidelines on preventative measures to keep your child’s feet healthy and pain-free.

Education and Support

We believe in empowering our patients and their families with knowledge and support. Our team will provide educational resources on Sever’s disease, including tips for managing symptoms at home and strategies for preventing future flare-ups. We are here to answer any questions you may have and offer ongoing support to ensure your child’s long-term foot health. By educating you and your child about Sever’s disease, we aim to promote proactive management and a swift return to normal activities.

Why Choose Bayshore Podiatry Center?

Pediatric Foot Care Expertise

At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we specialize in pediatric foot care and have extensive experience in treating conditions like Sever’s disease. Our podiatrists are skilled in addressing the unique needs of growing children and are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care. We understand the impact that foot pain can have on a child’s daily life and are committed to helping your child return to their favorite activities pain-free.

Comprehensive and Personalized Approach

We take a comprehensive approach to treatment, considering all aspects of your child’s health and lifestyle. Our personalized care plans are tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes. From the initial consultation to ongoing follow-up care, we are committed to providing a seamless and supportive experience. Our patient-centered approach ensures that your child receives the highest quality care at every step.

Advanced Treatment Techniques

Utilizing the latest advancements in podiatric medicine, we offer state-of-the-art treatment techniques and technologies. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical innovation means your child will receive the most effective and up-to-date care available. Whether it’s advanced diagnostic imaging or cutting-edge therapeutic interventions, we leverage the best tools and methods to ensure optimal results for our patients.

Positive Patient Experiences

We are proud of the positive experiences and successful outcomes of our patients. Our testimonials reflect our commitment to excellence and the trust that families place in us for their children’s foot care needs. Hearing our patients’ success stories and witnessing their return to an active lifestyle is our greatest reward. We invite you to read our patient testimonials to learn more about the impact of our treatments and the difference we can make in your child’s life.

Contact Us and Next Steps

How to Reach Us

Getting in touch with Bayshore Podiatry Center is easy. You can reach our office by phone at 813-877-6636 during business hours to speak with our friendly staff, who are always ready to assist you. Alternatively, you can send us an email or visit our website to find our contact information and office hours. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward effective treatment for your child.

Making Your First Appointment

Scheduling your first appointment is straightforward. Whether you prefer to call our office or use our convenient online booking system, we’ll find a time that works best for you and your child. Our staff will provide you with all the information you need to prepare for your visit, ensuring a smooth and efficient appointment process. We are committed to making your experience at Bayshore Podiatry Center as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

Preparing for Your Visit

Before your visit, it’s helpful to gather any relevant medical records, a list of your child’s current medications, and any questions you may have for our podiatrists. Dressing your child in comfortable clothing and arriving a few minutes early will help ensure a relaxed and efficient appointment. Our team will take the time to understand your child’s needs and provide a thorough evaluation, setting the stage for effective treatment and a positive outcome.