Your child just came off the soccer field limping, pointing to the back of their heel, and asking why it hurts so badly. For active kids between 8 and 15, that pain is rarely random — it’s often a signal that the growth plate inside the heel bone is irritated and needs attention.
At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. D. Sean Sweeney, DPM, FACFAS, and Dr. Christy Leahey, DPM, FACFAS, bring more than 20 years of trusted, leading-edge podiatric care to families across The Woodlands and Magnolia. Voted Best Podiatrist in The Woodlands by Living Magazine every year since 2012, our team blends compassion with advanced technology to get your young athlete back on their feet.
What Is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, is an injury to the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. It’s the most common cause of heel pain in growing children and usually develops without one specific injury — instead, repeated stress from running and jumping inflames the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel.
This condition is most common between ages 8 and 15, with boys affected more often than girls. It’s frequently seen in young soccer, football, and baseball players, and cleated sports shoes tend to worsen symptoms.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Pain or tenderness at the back or bottom of the heel
- Limping, especially after sports or activity
- Walking on tiptoes to avoid pressure on the heel
- Swelling or redness around the heel
- Discomfort that improves with rest and returns with activity
A tight Achilles tendon often contributes by exerting excessive pull on the growth plate. Because Sever’s disease can mimic Achilles tendonitis, a proper evaluation is important to rule out other issues.
Treatment for Sever’s Disease
Most cases respond well to conservative, at-home care. We typically start with simple steps before considering more advanced options:
- Calf muscle stretching exercises
- Heel cushions or supportive inserts in athletic shoes
- Icing the heel after activity
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as Tylenol or Advil
- Activity modification until symptoms calm down
When pain persists, your child should be evaluated for abnormal foot mechanics. Custom orthotics are often game-changers because they correct underlying foot function and fit into most standard shoes. In severe cases, a short period in a below-the-knee walking cast may be recommended. For lingering inflammation, our advanced MLS laser therapy — an FDA-cleared treatment with an 85–90% efficacy rate — can help reduce pain and accelerate tissue healing without medication.
Why Choose Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists for Sever’s Disease in The Woodlands, TX?
Families across Montgomery County trust our practice because we treat children the way we’d treat our own — with patience, warmth, and a clear plan. Dr. Sweeney and Dr. Leahey have built a word-of-mouth reputation rooted in compassion, integrity, and excellence, earning the title of Best Podiatrist in The Woodlands for 14 years running.
Our Sever’s disease treatment combines proven conservative techniques with modern innovations, all under one roof. We also offer prompt appointments for urgent sports-related injuries, so your athlete doesn’t sit on the sidelines longer than necessary.
Get Your Young Athlete Back in the Game
Heel pain shouldn’t keep your child from running, playing, or simply being a kid. With early evaluation, the right shoe support, and personalized treatment, most children recover fully and return to the activities they love. Schedule a consultation at Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists to learn more. Call The Woodlands at (281) 292-4944 or our Magnolia office at (281) 789-4956.