What are growing pains? And why does my child's heels hurt (Severs)?

A common problem I would see regularly when I used to work in academy football was heel pain. And many times it would be down to 'growing pains' - or as we call it medically Severs. It is a really common condition affecting 8-15 year olds and there are many things you can do to help resolve the issue!

Contents

1. 1What is Severs? (Heel growing pains?)
2. 2What are the risk factors of Severs?
3. 3How to treat Severs?

What is Severs? (Heel growing pains?)

APCP Image of Severs (Ankle growing pains)

Severs is an inflammation and pain at the bottom of the achilles or into the back of the heel - where the growth plate sits. It can be caused by the dones in the shin growing quicker than the speed in which the calf muscle can stretch. If you have a child that is very active and therefore has a more active calf muscle - it is less likely wanting to stretch. Therefore there is a greater pull where it attaches to the body.

What are the risk factors of Severs?

1. Regular activity that includes running & jumping such as football, netball, rugby etc

2. Tight muscles in the calf

3. Weak muscles at the front of the shin

4. High BMI

5. Aged between 8-15 years old

6. Poor support within footwear

7. Recent growth spurts

How to treat Severs?

1. A toolkit for pain relief:

   1. Ice

   2. Pain relief from the GP/Pharmacy

   3. Massaging the calf

   4. Heel lifts in the shoes

2. A toolkit to reduce the risk of it occurring

   1. Regular stretching

   2. Strengthening through the front of the shin

   3. Seeing a local physiotherapist

If you'd like some extra support with your child to help with their ankle pain why not book in with our Paediatric Physiotherapist Kate!

Book in with Kate!

Reference:

APCP Severs Leaflet