How long does paediatric physiotherapy take to work for Sever's disease?

Sever's disease affects the growth area at the back of the heel. Running, jumping, hard surfaces, tight calf muscles and sudden training increases can aggravate it. Physiotherapy aims to reduce strain and improve the way the foot, ankle and leg handle activity. Early progress may be easier walking, less pain after sport, improved calf movement and better tolerance of daily tasks.

A therapist may recommend calf and leg exercises, activity pacing, footwear or heel-support advice, and a staged return to impact. Symptoms can return if activity rises faster than the heel's tolerance, particularly during periods of growth.

Follow the agreed activity plan and complete exercises consistently, stopping to clarify any sharp or increasing pain. Note pain during walking, sport and the following day. Choose low-impact activity when advised, and increase running or jumping gradually only after the therapist's review. Discuss school physical education, training surfaces, footwear and rest breaks so the plan is practical for your child.

Contact the care team if heel pain is worsening, occurs at rest, causes a persistent limp or does not improve with the agreed activity changes. Seek urgent care after an injury if there is severe pain, major swelling, inability to bear weight or a sudden change in foot shape.

What activity is safe today, and what should wait? How will we know the heel is ready for impact? Which exercises suit my child's calf flexibility and strength? Should footwear or heel support be changed? What should we do if pain returns after training?