Is It Growing Pains or Sever’s Disease? How to Recognize Heel Pain in Active Children

Understanding Sever’s Disease and Heel Pain in Active Kids

If your child is active in sports and suddenly starts limping, walking on their toes, or complaining of heel pain — especially after practice or physical activity — it’s natural to assume they’re just dealing with “growing pains.” But when that pain lingers, worsens with movement, or affects how they walk, it could be something more specific: Sever’s disease.

Despite its name, Sever’s disease isn’t an illness and isn’t dangerous — but it is the most common cause of heel pain in growing children, and early diagnosis can make a big difference in your child’s comfort, performance, and overall well-being.

🔎 What Is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease (also known as calcaneal apophysitis) is a type of overuse injury that occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed. During a growth spurt, bones often grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons. In active kids, the Achilles tendon repeatedly pulls on the not-yet-fully-developed heel bone, leading to pain and irritation.

This condition is most common between ages 8 and 14 and tends to appear during or after intense physical activity, especially in kids who play sports like:

• ⚽️ Soccer

• 🏀 Basketball

• 🏈 Football

• 🤸 Gymnastics

• 🏃 Track and field

• 🥍 Lacrosse or other cleat-based sports

It’s also more likely during spring and fall seasons, when sports schedules are at their busiest and kids are suddenly increasing their activity levels.

🧠 Common Symptoms of Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is typically easy to recognize once you know the signs. Look out for:

• Pain or tenderness at the back or bottom of the heel

• Limping or walking on tiptoes

• Pain that worsens with running, jumping, or sports

• Stiffness in the heel or ankle after activity

• Pain that improves with rest

It usually affects one heel, though both can be involved in some cases. It does not cause swelling or visible bruising unless the pain is due to a more serious injury.

🩺 How Is Sever’s Diagnosed?

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, our board-certified providers begin with a thorough physical exam and medical history review. We’ll assess your child’s range of motion, pain points, and gait (the way they walk).

If the heel pain is persistent or doesn’t respond to basic care, we may recommend:

• X-rays to rule out fractures or other bone conditions

• Ultrasound imaging in some cases

• Orthopedic evaluation if the condition is advanced or recurring

No blood tests are needed, and a diagnosis is usually made based on symptoms and physical presentation alone.

💡 Treatment Options for Sever’s Disease

The good news: Sever’s disease is not permanent and will not cause long-term damage when properly treated. Most children recover fully with conservative, non-invasive care.

At iCare, your child’s care plan may include:

✅ Rest & Activity Modification: We’ll help determine what level of activity is safe. Temporary breaks from high-impact sports can help the heel heal without strain.

❄️ Ice & Anti-inflammatory Relief: Ice packs and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) can reduce pain and swelling.

👟 Supportive Footwear or Heel Cushions: Cushioned shoes or orthotic inserts relieve pressure on the heel and Achilles tendon.

🧘 Gentle Stretching: Daily calf and Achilles tendon stretches help ease tightness and improve flexibility.

🏃 Gradual Return to Play: Once symptoms subside, we’ll guide a slow return to full activity to prevent flare-ups.

In some cases, a short-term boot or brace may be recommended to protect the foot while walking.

🧼 Can Sever’s Disease Be Prevented?

While not always avoidable during growth spurts, you can lower the risk of heel pain flare-ups by:

• Wearing well-fitted, cushioned athletic shoes

• Stretching before and after practice

• Avoiding sudden increases in activity

• Encouraging rest between sports seasons

• Recognizing early signs of heel discomfort and addressing them promptly

🏥 Don’t Let Heel Pain Slow Your Child Down

Whether it’s growing pains or Sever’s disease, persistent heel pain shouldn’t be ignored. Getting the right diagnosis early can help your child stay active, safe, and confident on the field or court.

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, we make it easy for families to get expert care—without the wait or confusion of choosing between urgent care or the ER.

Our modern, kid-friendly facilities offer:

• 🚨 Emergency Room and Urgent Care in one location

• 🩺 Board-certified medical providers

• 🕒 Extended hours, including evenings and weekends

• ⏱️ Low wait times and fast service

• 🏙️ Convenient locations in Fort Worth, Frisco, and Forney

• 📲 Online check-in to save your spot

📍 Find Relief Fast. Walk In or Check In Online Today.

Let your child play, grow, and thrive — without pain holding them back.

Visit your nearest iCare ER & Urgent Care in Fort Worth, Frisco, or Forney today and let our compassionate care team help your child get back on their feet.