Managing Sever's disease involves a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at reducing pain, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. Here’s a more detailed look at how each aspect of the treatment plan contributes to resolving this condition in children:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
- Purpose: Resting the affected foot and modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms are crucial initial steps.
- Role: Reduces stress on the growth plate of the heel bone (calcaneus), allowing inflammation to subside and promoting healing.
2. Ice Therapy
- Purpose: Applying ice to the heel bone (calcaneus) helps alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Role: Decreases swelling and provides temporary relief, especially after activities that trigger discomfort.
3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
- Purpose: Specific stretches and exercises target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
- Role: Improves flexibility, reduces tension on the heel bone, and promotes better biomechanical alignment.
4. Proper Footwear
- Purpose: Supportive footwear with cushioning and good arch support is essential.
- Role: Helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing strain on the heel bone and supporting natural foot mechanics.
5. Orthotic Inserts
- Purpose: Custom or Nolaro orthotics for children can provide additional support and cushioning.
- Role: Helps correct foot mechanics, redistributes pressure, and supports the arch, which can alleviate symptoms and aid in recovery.
6. Pain Management
- Purpose: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers may be recommended.
- Role: Helps manage pain and discomfort, allowing children to engage in necessary activities with reduced discomfort.
7. Gradual Return to Activity
- Purpose: Once symptoms improve, gradually reintroducing activities is important.
- Role: Ensures that the heel bone and surrounding structures continue to heal without exacerbating symptoms.
8. Monitoring and Follow-up
- Purpose: Regular follow-up appointments monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
- Role: Allows our providers to track healing, address any setbacks promptly, and ensure optimal recovery.
Duration and Resolution
- Timeline: With consistent adherence to the treatment plan, most cases of Sever's disease resolve within a few months.
- Outcome: Effective management not only alleviates symptoms but also reduces the likelihood of recurrence, allowing children to return to normal activities pain-free.
By implementing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the child's needs, Sever's disease can be effectively managed and resolved. Early intervention and consistent follow-up play pivotal roles in minimizing the impact of this condition on a child's daily life and ensuring a smooth recovery process. Whether caused by Sever’s disease or another condition, persistent heel pain is never something to ignore at any age. Let us help you get to the root of the problem and provide the best care to keep your child enjoying their favorite activities without worry. Call us at either of our two offices to schedule an appointment. For Oak Creek, call (414) 764-4500, and for New Berlin, call (262) 821-1588.