Why does Sever's disease cause growing pains?

Sever's disease affects the growth area at the back of the heel in children and adolescents whose bones are still developing. The calf muscles and Achilles tendon attach near this area. Running, jumping and other impact activities can repeatedly load the attachment, producing aching or tenderness. Symptoms may be noticed after sport, with walking, or later in the day. They can settle with rest and return when activity increases. This pattern is different from ordinary muscle tiredness because the soreness is focused around the heel and may be tender when pressed.

Reduce activities that trigger pain for a short period, while keeping comfortable movement. Supportive shoes and a cushioned heel insert may reduce impact. Gentle calf stretching can help if it does not increase symptoms; a physiotherapist can show a child-safe technique. Ice wrapped in a cloth after activity may ease soreness. Gradually return to running and jumping when walking and everyday activity are comfortable, increasing one change at a time.

Arrange a clinical assessment if pain keeps returning, causes limping, interrupts sleep, or does not improve after reducing aggravating activity. Seek urgent care after a significant injury, or when a child cannot bear weight, has marked swelling or redness, fever, numbness, or sudden severe pain. A clinician can examine the heel and consider other causes of pain.

Ask whether the tenderness matches the heel growth area, which activities should pause, and how to restart sport safely. You can also ask whether footwear, a heel insert, stretching, or physiotherapy fits your child's symptoms.