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Sever’s Disease (Pediatric Heel Pain)

Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist

Podiatry & Foot and Ankle Specialists located in Homer Glen, IL

At Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Christopher Vittori and Dr. Ameet Thakrar specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Sever’s Disease, a common cause of heel pain in active children. Serving Homer Glen and New Lenox, our team provides personalized care to help young athletes overcome growth-related heel pain and return to their favorite sports comfortably.

Advanced Non-Surgical Treatment for Active Children & Athletes

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s Disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It is most common in physically active children between the ages of 8 and 14, especially those participating in high-impact sports like soccer, basketball, and track.

Signs Your Child May Have Sever's Disease

  • Pain in the back or bottom of the heel.

  • Limping, especially after sports or physical activity.

  • Walking on toes to avoid putting weight on the heel.

  • Tenderness when the sides of the heel are squeezed.

Our Pediatric Care Approach

Dr. Vittori and Dr. Thakrar focus on non-invasive solutions that address the biomechanical causes of pediatric heel pain:

  • Custom 4D Digital Orthotics: We create precision-mapped orthotics to support the developing foot, neutralize the pull on the growth plate, and provide immediate relief.

  • Stretching & Physical Therapy Protocols: Customized home exercise programs to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

  • Activity Modification Counseling: Helping parents and coaches manage training loads to ensure healing without completely sidelining the athlete.

If your child is struggling with persistent heel pain, our Homer Glen clinic offers the expertise needed to ensure healthy regrowth and long-term joint stability.