Sever’s Disease Treatment Brisbane: Understanding Heel Pain in Active Kids

If your child is experiencing heel pain during sport, they may be affected by Sever’s disease. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, this condition is one of the most common causes of heel pain in children aged 8–14. While the name can sound worrying, Sever’s disease is simply a temporary growth-related irritation of the heel bone’s growth plate — and it is very treatable.

At Your Podiatry People in Greenslopes, we provide gentle and effective Sever’s disease treatment in Brisbane, helping active kids stay comfortable and continue participating in the sports they love.

What Causes Sever’s Disease?

During growth spurts, the heel bone develops faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons. The Achilles tendon can pull tightly on the back of the heel, leading to irritation and inflammation.

Common contributing factors include:

• Rapid growth phases

• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon

• Flat feet or high arches

• Unsupportive or worn-out footwear

• High-impact sports such as soccer, AFL, basketball or netball

Symptoms of Sever’s Disease

Children may experience:

• Heel pain during or after activity

• Limping or walking on their toes to avoid heel pressure

• Pain when the heel is squeezed

• Difficulty playing sport due to discomfort

Pain often improves with rest and worsens with running, jumping or training sessions.

How Is Sever’s Disease Diagnosed?

At our Brisbane podiatry clinic, Sever’s disease is diagnosed through:

• A thorough history of your child’s symptoms

• Physical examination of strength, flexibility and gait

• Activity and sports load assessment

In most cases, X-rays or scans are not required.

Sever’s Disease Treatment at Our Brisbane Clinic

Our treatment approach focuses on reducing pain, protecting the heel, and improving flexibility and biomechanics.

Evidence-based treatment options include:

• Temporary reduction or modification of sport load

• Ice or heat therapy after activity

• Calf and Achilles stretching programs

• Supportive sports shoes and cushioned heel cups

• Custom foot orthotics if structural alignment contributes to pain

• Guidance on safe return-to-sport progression

Most children improve significantly within a few weeks to a few months, depending on activity levels.

Can Sever’s Disease Be Prevented?

While we can’t stop growth, we can reduce strain on the heel.

Helpful strategies:

• Ensure supportive, well-fitted footwear

• Regular calf stretching during growth phases

• Avoid sudden increases in training volume or intensity

• Orthotic support where needed

When to See a Podiatrist

If your child has persistent heel pain, a limp, or difficulty participating in sport, early assessment is recommended. Prompt management can prevent ongoing discomfort and allow for a quicker return to full activity.

At Your Podiatry People, Greenslopes, we provide expert Sever’s disease treatment in Brisbane, ensuring kids recover safely and confidently.

Book an Appointment

Your Podiatry People
📍 3/633 Logan Road, Greenslopes QLD
📞 (07) 3706 0793
📧 greenslopes@yourpodiatrypeople.com
Book Online: https://yourpodiatrypeople.com.au

Better Health Channel (Vic Gov) – Sever’s Disease
Link: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/severs-disease
A solid, government-backed explanation of Sever’s disease.