Does custom orthotics treat Sever's disease?

Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, affects the growing area at the back of a child's heel. Repeated running and jumping can stress this area, often causing heel pain during or after activity. An insert may cushion the heel, support the foot, and alter how force travels through the leg.

The child may still need reduced impact activity, calf stretching, and a gradual return to sport. The right design depends on the child's footwear, foot movement, pain pattern, and growth stage.

Use supportive sports shoes and avoid activities that make the child limp or continue to hurt after rest. Ice wrapped in cloth may soothe the heel after activity. A clinician can decide whether a heel cup, prefabricated insert, or custom device is suitable; an insert should not create pressure or alter walking uncomfortably.

Keep the return to sport gradual, increasing activity only when walking and light movement are comfortable. See [Sever's Disease](/conditions/sever-disease/) and [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) for related explanations.

Book an assessment when heel pain limits sport, causes a limp, or does not settle with rest and footwear changes. Seek prompt evaluation after a significant injury, or if there is inability to bear weight, pronounced swelling, fever, or pain at rest or at night.

Ask which activities are safe now, whether the heel needs extra cushioning, and how to measure progress. Clarify the stretching plan, the signs that the insert needs adjustment, and the point at which your child can return to running and jumping.