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We take the time needed for a thorough examination to find the underlying cause of your pain.
Airrosti Providers use hands-on manual therapy to treat Sever’s disease to reduce pain, increase mobility, and accelerate healing.
No surgery, injections, or prescription medication.
Patients have shorter recovery time with an average of 3.2 visits over 2 weeks.
Speed your recovery and keep your pain from returning.
Sever’s disease, also known as Calcaneal Apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing adolescents. It usually occurs during the growth spurt of adolescence, the approximate 2-year period in early puberty when kids grow most rapidly.
This growth spurt can begin any time between the ages of 8 and 13 for girls and 10 and 15 for boys. Sever’s disease rarely occurs in older teens because the back of the heel usually finishes growing by the age of 15, when the growth plate hardens and the growing bones fuse together into mature bones.
The nagging heel pain caused by Sever’s disease is common among growing, young athletes. Traditionally, time and long periods of rest have been the only real options for treating this condition. Airrosti is different. We work to pinpoint the root of this pain and treat it directly at the source. Unlike traditional methods of treatment, Airrosti helps eliminate pain in an average of three visits (based on patient-reported outcomes).
Still have questions or concerns about Sever’s disease? Schedule a no-cost video chat with one of our Providers.
Sever’s disease is a painful injury that develops in the growth plates in the heel, near the Achilles tendon. During a growth spurt, these growth plates tend to grow faster than the ligaments in the leg, which can cause tightness and leave the child’s heel vulnerable to injury. Active adolescents who spend a lot of time running, jumping, and playing sports are at an especially high risk due to the repetitive stress these activities can put on the heel.
It can be especially painful for student athletes who train and compete on hard surfaces, such as track, basketball, and gymnastics. Ill-fitting shoes can also contribute to the condition by not providing enough support or padding for the feet or by rubbing against the back of the heel.
This bone injury is similar to Osgood-Schlatter disease, a condition that affects the growth plates in the knees of young athletes and active adolescents. Both injuries are caused by repetitive stress on the growth plates. However, while Osgood-Schlatter Disease affects the growth plates in the knee, Sever’s disease typically creates pain in the heel.
The most obvious sign of Sever’s disease is pain or tenderness in one or both heels. Pain typically occurs at the back of the heel but may extend to the sides and bottom of the heel.
•Swelling and redness in the heel
•Difficulty walking
•Heel pain with movement or when standing for long periods of time
•Discomfort or stiffness in the feet upon waking up
•Pain that worsens if the heel is touched or squeezed
Surgery is not necessary for Sever’s disease. It is a common condition in growing children, especially those who are physically active, and it usually resolves on its own as the child’s growth plate in the heel matures. Conservative treatments like rest, ice, physical therapy and Airrosti care are typically effective in managing symptoms. A healthcare provider can help determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of the pain.
Yes, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with Sever’s disease. It’s important to follow the recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists. Since this condition is related to growth, medications are used for symptom relief rather than as a cure.
Yes, self-care techniques and specific exercises can help manage Sever’s disease. Resting the affected heel and avoiding high-impact activities, like running and jumping, can reduce symptoms. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, along with strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle, can help alleviate tension on the heel bone. Ice therapy after activity and using supportive footwear with heel lifts or orthotics can provide additional relief. Airrosti can offer a tailored exercise program to support healing.
Yes, limiting activities that put stress on the heel, such as running, jumping, or participating in sports, is important for managing Sever’s disease. Rest and modifying physical activity are essential to allow the inflammation to subside. Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can be good alternatives during the recovery period. Gradual return to normal activities should be done once symptoms improve, and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, to prevent flare-ups.
We are very pleased with Dr. Rozacky for helping our 14-year-old son get back on track with his soccer career after having all kinds of injuries related to stretching his body limits. Sever's disease, hip problems, pulled hamstring, Achilles & ankle pain - Dr. Rozacky could help us with all these! In addition, Dr. Rozacky also saved our vacation as he quickly healed my wife's neck problems right before our 14+ hour flight. Highly recommended! Thank you!
by Peter Markovics
We offer both in-clinic and telehealth appointments to best suit your needs.
Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic
Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.
