According to physical therapy center SportsCare Institute, Inc., young athletes are naturally more prone to sustaining injuries because of the various changes the body undergoes during puberty and trying to become accustomed to these changes. Changes include increased muscle mass, an alteration of the body’s center of gravity, and a rapid growth in height. Growing muscles make adolescents prone to injuries such as Sever’s disease, which is a result of repeated stress on the feet. Certified Athletic Trainer Jannel Arrieche comments, “These kids are playing the same games, but doing so in new, larger, and suddenly more awkward bodies. And, obviously, that can be a recipe for problems.”

If your child is suffering from heel pain, it can be indicative of Sever’s disease. To learn more, see Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Toe gait- develops in which the child must change the way they walk to avoid placing weight on the heel. This can lead to other problems as well in the future.

Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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