Sever Condition Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment by MedicineNet.com

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Sever Condition

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Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

What is Sever condition?

Sever condition is an inflammation of the growth plate of the bone at the back of the heel (apophysitis of the calcaneus). The inflammation of Sever condition is at the point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the back of the heel bone.

Picture of the metatarsal (foot) and calcaneus (heel) bones, the plantar fascia ligament, and the Achilles tendon of the lower leg and foot

Who gets Sever condition?

Sever condition occurs in adolescent or older children, particularly active boys. It can be very painful. It is one of those conditions commonly referred to as "growing pains." Patients are evaluated for signs of conditions that can mimic Sever condition, such as ankylosing spondylitis and other forms of arthritis. Usually Sever condition is self limited; that is, it disappears as the child ages.

How is Sever condition treated?

When the condition flares, it is treated with activity limitation, medication to reduce inflammation (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), shoe inserts, heel lifts, cold packs, and sometimes casting when it becomes especially severe.

Last Editorial Review: 11/2/2007

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