Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Sever's Disease
What is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease is a condition that affects the growth plate at the back of the heel bone, known as the calcaneus. It is most commonly seen in young athletes who are undergoing periods of rapid growth. The growth plate at the heel is a weak area in children and can become irritated or inflamed with repeated stress. Physiotherapy plays an important role in managing Sever’s disease, helping to reduce pain, restore function, and allow children to continue their activities safely.
How Does Sever’s Disease Happen?
The calf muscles attach to the heel bone through the Achilles tendon, which transmits the forces generated by the calf muscles to the heel. In children, the attachment site of the Achilles tendon is separated from the main body of the heel bone by a growth plate, which allows the bone to lengthen during growth. This growth plate is a naturally weaker area of the bone. Sever’s disease often develops during growth spurts in active children because the combination of rapid bone growth, tighter muscles and tendons, and high levels of physical activity places repeated stress on the growth plate, leading to inflammation and pain at the back of the heel.
What are the symptoms of Sever’s disease?
Sever’s disease causes pain at the back of the heel, which is often worsened during and after physical activity. The affected area may be tender to touch and occasionally swollen. Children may also experience a reduced range of movement in the ankle, difficulty with balance, changes in their gait, or muscle spasms due to pain and altered mechanics.
What should I do if my child has Sever’s disease?
If your child is showing these symptoms and Sever’s disease is suspected, it is important to arrange an appointment with a physiotherapist as soon as possible. In the meantime, their participation in sports or high-impact activities should be limited to prevent further stress on the growth plate and allow initial healing.
What shouldn’t I do if my child has Sever’s disease?
You should not encourage your child to exercise through the pain, as this can increase damage to the growth plate and prolong recovery. Early rest and physiotherapy guidance are essential to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.
Physiotherapy treatment for Sever’s disease
A physiotherapy assessment is essential for the successful management of Sever’s disease. Your physiotherapist will diagnose the condition, determine the extent of the damage, and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your child. Initial treatment may involve a period of rest combined with soft tissue therapies such as massage, stretching, and electrotherapy to reduce pain and promote healing. Additional treatments may include the use of orthotics to support the heel, taping techniques to reduce strain, and hydrotherapy to maintain mobility while minimizing impact on the heel. The physiotherapist will also provide guidance on gradually returning to physical activity while ensuring the growth plate is protected.
Could there be any long-term effects from Sever’s disease?
Sever’s disease does not cause any long-term effects and will not interfere with your child’s growth. While the pain can be significant during activity, it will eventually settle, although in some cases it may take up to twelve months for complete resolution. Early physiotherapy intervention helps to manage symptoms and ensures a safe return to sports and daily activities.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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