Few things slow kids down—especially kids who love to run, play sports, and stay active.
That’s why it can be surprising for parents when a child suddenly starts complaining about heel pain or becomes reluctant to participate in activities they normally enjoy. Sometimes kids even try to hide the problem because they’re afraid they’ll have to stop playing sports.
However, parents may notice subtle signs something is wrong—such as limping, avoiding running, or changes in behavior during sports or playtime.
One of the most common causes of heel pain in active children ages 8–15 is a condition called Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis.
At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we frequently treat pediatric heel pain caused by Sever’s disease and help kids safely return to their favorite activities.
What Is Sever’s Disease? ![]()
Despite the name, Sever’s disease is not actually a disease and it is not contagious.
Instead, it is a growth-related overuse injury that occurs during childhood and adolescence when the bones are growing rapidly.
During this stage of development, the heel bone—known as the calcaneus—grows quickly. At the back of the heel is an area called the growth plate, which produces new bone as children grow.
Growth plates are softer and more vulnerable than mature bone. If the heel bone grows faster than the muscles and tendons that attach to it, those tissues can become tight and place extra stress on the growth plate.
The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, pulls on this growth plate during activity. Repeated stress can irritate the area, leading to inflammation and heel pain in children.
Why Do Active Kids Develop Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease is most common in active children involved in sports, particularly activities that involve repetitive impact on the heels.
Risk factors may include:
- Playing sports that involve running and jumping such as basketball, soccer, tennis, or track
- Repeated impact on hard surfaces
- Standing for long periods of time
- Sudden increases in activity level
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons
- Improper footwear or poorly fitting shoes
Kids are naturally energetic and often push themselves hard during sports, which can place additional stress on the developing heel.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease in Children
The primary symptom of Sever’s disease is heel pain, but the way it appears can vary.
Parents should watch for:
- Heel pain during or after sports or activity
- Limping or difficulty walking
- Pain when squeezing the back or sides of the heel
- Redness or swelling around the heel
- Stiffness or soreness in the morning
- Pain after long periods of inactivity
Many children try to ignore or hide the pain because they don’t want to miss sports or activities.
However, early treatment can shorten recovery time and prevent prolonged discomfort.
How Is Sever’s Disease Diagnosed?
A podiatrist can typically diagnose Sever’s disease during a physical examination.
During the visit, we evaluate:
- The location of the heel pain
- Your child’s activity level
- Foot structure and gait
- Tenderness around the heel growth plate
In some cases, an X-ray may be recommended to rule out stress fractures or other injuries.
Treatment for Sever’s Disease in Kids
The most important part of treatment is allowing the heel to rest and recover.
Continuing to push through pain can prolong symptoms and delay healing.
Treatment may include:
Temporary Activity Modification
Reducing high-impact activities allows the growth plate time to heal.
Orthotics to Reduce Heel Stress
We may recommend specialized orthotics depending on your child’s stage of growth:
- Little Steps orthotics for younger children whose heels are still rapidly growing (typically under age 10)
- Go-4D custom orthotics for children whose growth has slowed or mostly completed (typically over age 10)
Orthotics help offload pressure from the heel and reduce stress on the growth plate.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can reduce tension on the heel and improve recovery.
Proper Footwear
Supportive athletic shoes with cushioning and a stable heel can significantly reduce heel stress during sports.
With proper care, most children recover fully and return to sports safely.
When Should You See a Podiatrist for Child Heel Pain?
Heel pain should never be ignored, especially if it continues for several days or interferes with normal activity.
You should consider scheduling an appointment if your child:
- Has persistent heel pain
- Is limping or avoiding activity
- Experiences pain after sports
- Has swelling or tenderness in the heel
Early diagnosis can help prevent prolonged pain and allow your child to return to activities sooner.
Pediatric Heel Pain Treatment in New Berlin, WI
At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, our goal is to help children recover quickly and safely so they can get back to doing what they love.
We take a kid-friendly, conservative approach to treatment and work closely with parents to ensure long-term foot health during growth and development.
If your child is experiencing heel pain, don’t ignore the signs.
📞 Call Third Coast Foot & Ankle at (262) 821-1588 to schedule an appointment at our New Berlin office.
