99/103 Harris St, Bicton WA 6157, Australia
Sever’s Disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, especially those who participate in running or jumping sports. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated due to increased load during growth phases or changes in activity.
Our podiatrists provide individualised assessments and guidance to help families understand the condition, identify contributing factors, and explore management strategies that support comfort, participation, and safe activity levels.
Our podiatrists assess:
Foot and lower-limb biomechanics
Footwear suitability
Activity load and sport participation
Growth patterns and stages
Calf and lower-leg mobility
Pain triggers and daily activity limitations
Based on the assessment, your podiatrist may recommend:
Activity and load modification strategies
Footwear adjustments or recommendations
Heel support options
Calf stretching or mobility exercises
Education for families on managing symptoms
Every plan is tailored to the child’s symptoms, activity levels, and developmental stage.
Podiatry is often the primary service for heel pain, but other allied health support may be useful depending on symptoms.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists can help address calf tightness, lower-limb weakness, or mobility concerns through stretching, strengthening, and activity guidance.
Exercise Physiology (AEP)
Exercise Physiologists may support older children or adolescents who need help managing activity loads or returning to sport during growth periods.
WA Health Group’s podiatrists, physiotherapists, and exercise physiologists collaborate to support children with heel pain. If your child has symptoms consistent with Sever’s Disease, we can help you explore appropriate assessment and management options.
1. How is Sever’s Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on your child’s symptoms, activity history, and a clinical assessment. Imaging is not usually required unless recommended by a GP.
2. At what age does Sever’s Disease typically occur?
It usually affects children and adolescents during growth phases, commonly between 8 and 14 years old.
3. Does Sever’s Disease cause long-term problems?
Sever’s Disease is related to growth and typically settles as the growth plate matures. Your clinician can guide strategies to help manage symptoms during this period.
4. Can my child continue sport with Sever’s Disease?
This depends on their symptoms. Your clinician can discuss activity levels and help determine what is appropriate for your child.
5. What should my child wear to the appointment?
Comfortable clothing and the shoes they wear regularly for school and sport are helpful for assessment.
6. Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
A referral is not required for standard appointments, though some funded programs may request one.
7. Is Sever’s Disease related to flat feet or high arches?
Foot structure may contribute to symptoms, but it is not the sole cause. Your podiatrist will assess this as part of understanding contributing factors.
8. How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery varies depending on activity levels, growth stage, and symptom severity. Your clinician can provide guidance based on the assessment.
9. When should my child see a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist?
These services may be recommended if strength, mobility, or activity load requires additional support.
10. How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be made online, by phone, or in person. Our reception team can help you choose the most suitable clinician.