Sever’s Disease
Osgood-Schlatter of the heel
Sever’s disease is similar to Osgood-Schlatter disease of the knee in that they both involve a partial detachment or tearing of the tendon from the bone. The difference is location: Osgood-Schlatter occurs at the knee, and Sever’s occurs at the ankle. In Sever’s disease, which usually occurs in children from the ages of 8 to 14, the Achilles tendon begins to tear away from its insertion into the calcaneus or heel bone. This injury can be very painful and affect highly active to somewhat inactive children. Symptoms include pain that increases with activity, localized pain in the back of the foot, tenderness to the touch, and swelling.
Treatment includes rest, ice, compression, elevation, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication as necessary.
Prevention
- Properly stretch before and after activity.
- Participate in activities within your skill range.
- Do not overtrain.
- When pain occurs, stop activity and allow ample rest time.
Rehabilitation
- First and foremost is rest.
- Begin with light stretching exercises to increase flexibility.
- Progress to strengthening exercises for the ankle, knee, and hip.
- Progress back to activity at a gradual pace.
Content on this page is for informational purposes only. If injured, please consult a physician.