Kids Heel Pain? Let’s Get Them Back to Running, Pain-Free
Is your child complaining of heel pain?
If your child is limping after sport, avoiding activity, or complaining of heel pain, we can help.
Heel pain is one of the most common issues in active kids—and with the right approach, it can improve quickly.
What is Kids Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease)?
The correct term is Calcaneal Apophysitis and inflammation of the growth plates of the heel. The condition is commonly known as Sever’s disease, and is one of the most common causes of heel pain in active children aged 8–14.
It occurs when:
- The heel bone is still developing
- Sport and activity place repeated stress through the growth plate
- The body struggles to adapt to increasing load during growth spurts
Importantly, this isn’t just a “tightness” problem — it’s often a combination of traction AND compression forces through the heel.
Why Traditional Advice Often Falls Short
Many treatments focus only on:
- Stretching
- Taping
- Heel Lifts
- Rest
- “Wait and see”
But children’s heel pain is often driven by compression load through the growth plate, not just muscle tension.
If compression forces aren’t addressed, pain can continue or repeatedly flare up.
Our Modern Approach to Kids Heel Pain
At Footsure Podiatry, we focus on reducing the forces irritating the heel while keeping kids as active as possible.
Load Management
Simple changes to activity and footwear to reduce stress through the heel, without completely stopping sport.
Heel Supports & Orthotics
Designed to redistribute pressure away from the irritated growth plate and improve comfort during activity.
Compression-Focused Therapy
A modern treatment approach targeting the compressive forces contributing to heel pain—not just traction alone.
Advanced Treatment Devices
We use modern technologies designed to reduce pain, improve tissue tolerance, and support healing while kids stay active.
Signs Your Child May Have Sever’s Disease
- Heel pain during or after sport
- Limping or walking on toes
- Pain first thing in the morning
- Avoiding running or activity
- Soreness at the back or bottom of the heel
Why Early Treatment Matters
Without proper management, heel pain can:
- Persist for months
- Limit sports participation
- Lead to knee, hip, or back issues from compensation
The earlier the treatment starts, the easier it usually is to settle.
Help Your Child Get Back to Sport — Pain Free
Book an assessment with Footsure Podiatry today.
We have a specific appointment you can select in online bookings or let our admin know when you call and they will book a heel pain assessment for your child.
👉 Book Online
📞 Call: 07 5443 6761
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child need to stop sport?
Usually not. We aim to modify load and reduce pain while keeping kids involved where possible.
Is this just growing pains?
No. Heel pain during growth needs proper management to avoid prolonged symptoms.
Will it come back?
It can during growth spurts, but appropriate treatment significantly reduces recurrence.