When is paediatric physiotherapy recommended for Sever's disease?

Sever's disease is irritation around the growing area at the back of the heel. Repeated running and jumping can aggravate it, particularly during growth. A physiotherapist looks at walking, running, ankle movement, calf flexibility, foot strength, and training load. Treatment is usually aimed at reducing strain on the heel while keeping the child active in suitable ways.

Book an assessment if heel pain is limiting sport, school movement, or normal play, or if it continues despite sensible activity reduction. The plan may include calf and foot exercises, warm-up advice, footwear or heel-support guidance, and a staged return to running. Increase training only when walking and agreed activities are comfortable, following the clinician’s progression.

Seek medical assessment promptly if the child cannot bear weight, has significant swelling or redness, develops fever, or has pain after a clear injury. Recontact the clinician if symptoms are worsening, occur at rest or at night, or do not settle with the recommended changes.

Ask how much running and jumping is suitable now, which exercises are appropriate during a painful phase, and what signs show readiness to return to sport. Clarify whether the child needs a review if pain affects one side more than the other or changes suddenly.