What is Sever's (calcaneal apophysitis) |
- Sever's is heel pain due to the achilles tendon pulling on the insertion at the heel; similar
to Osgood Schlatter pain where the patellar tendon pulls on the insertion at the tibial
tuberosity at the knee. Both are a type of osteochondrosis.
When does it occur- during growth times in one or both heels of males or females
How is it diagnosed- typically by history and physical alone, xrays will appear normal, as
will MRI and bone scan (usually) which are not absolutely necessary but help to rule other
things out such as a fracture, stress fracture, or other reasons for pain.
How is it treated- ice (bucket with ice and water is better than ice alone)
- ibuprofen* before workout, topical ketoprofen*
- achilles stretching, physical therapy, night splints
- heel cup protection and good shoe support
- relative rest (exercise as tolerated, stop when too much pain or limp)
How long does it last- it can come and go typically improving when less growth and
exacerbated during increased growth. It "disappears" towards the end of adolescence.
Talk to your doctor if you think Sever's syndrome is causing your heel pain.
*Always discuss with your doctor before taking medication
wellbody
Focused on the healthcare of athletes
to Osgood Schlatter pain where the patellar tendon pulls on the insertion at the tibial
tuberosity at the knee. Both are a type of osteochondrosis.
When does it occur- during growth times in one or both heels of males or females
How is it diagnosed- typically by history and physical alone, xrays will appear normal, as
will MRI and bone scan (usually) which are not absolutely necessary but help to rule other
things out such as a fracture, stress fracture, or other reasons for pain.
How is it treated- ice (bucket with ice and water is better than ice alone)
- ibuprofen* before workout, topical ketoprofen*
- achilles stretching, physical therapy, night splints
- heel cup protection and good shoe support
- relative rest (exercise as tolerated, stop when too much pain or limp)
How long does it last- it can come and go typically improving when less growth and
exacerbated during increased growth. It "disappears" towards the end of adolescence.
Talk to your doctor if you think Sever's syndrome is causing your heel pain.
*Always discuss with your doctor before taking medication
wellbody
Focused on the healthcare of athletes
