Sever's disease stretches: what to know

Sever’s disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, affects the growth area at the back of a growing child’s heel. Repeated running or jumping can load this area while the calf muscles and Achilles tendon are tight. Stretching is intended to reduce that pull; it does not force the heel to heal faster.

A child may feel pain during sport, after activity, or when squeezing the heel. [Heel Pain](/symptoms/heel-pain/) can have other causes, so a clinician should confirm the diagnosis when symptoms persist or interfere with walking.

A physiotherapist can demonstrate a wall calf stretch with the painful heel kept down and the knee positioned for either the gastrocnemius or soleus muscle. A seated towel stretch can be an alternative if standing is uncomfortable. Move slowly, breathe normally, and stop if the pain becomes sharp, increases afterwards, or causes limping.

Pair stretching with a temporary reduction in running and jumping, supportive shoes, and a gradual return to sport when walking and everyday movement are comfortable. A clinician may discuss [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/) or [Paediatric Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/paediatric-physiotherapy/) if foot mechanics, flexibility, or training load need individual review.

Arrange an assessment if heel pain lasts despite rest, returns each time sport resumes, affects sleep, or makes the child avoid putting the foot down. Seek prompt medical attention after a significant injury, or when there is marked swelling, redness, warmth, fever, numbness, or inability to walk.

Ask which muscles to stretch, how often to practise, what pain level is acceptable, and which activities can continue. You can also ask how to judge readiness for sport and whether another cause of heel pain needs examination.