Sport Specialization in Young Children Can Increase Chances of Sever’s Disease

Sport Specialization in Young Children Can Increase Chances of Sever’s Disease

New Research Suggests that specialization in a particular sport may lead to early damage and injury in young children. Although it has become increasingly popular, many suggest that specialization should start at the end of their child’s growth spurts. This usually occurs around 15 years of age or during adolescence. Dr. Liebeg of Akron Children’s Hospital states, “During growth spurts, the growth plates are at a higher risk for injury.” Sever’s disease is a foot condition that commonly occurs in growing children, but is most often developed in children that are more physically active. The disease is clearly displayed as the inflammation of the heel’s growth plate.

Sever’s disease is common in children and can be treated, so parents should not be alarmed if their child is showing signs or symptoms of the disease. See Dr. Jeffrey Conforti of New Jersey for treatment. Dr. Conforti will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Toe gait- develops in which the child must change the way they walk to avoid placing weight on the heel. This can lead to other problems as well in the future.

Symptoms

Acute pain – pain asscoiatied with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

For more information about Sever’s Disease, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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