Growing up too fast can come with challenges, especially for active children and teenagers. At Bodywell Healthcare, we often see cases of Sever’s Disease and Osgood-Schlatter Disease, two common growth-related conditions that can cause significant discomfort in the heels and knees respectively. With the right care, kids can continue to enjoy their favourite activities pain-free! Let’s take a closer look at these conditions and how osteopathy can help.
What is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s Disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children. It occurs where the Achilles tendon attaches to the calcaneus (heel bone), causing inflammation in the growth plate. This condition is often linked to repetitive stress from high-impact activities like soccer, netball, and basketball.
Symptoms of Sever’s Disease:
- Pain or tenderness in the heel, especially after physical activity
- Swelling or redness around the heel
- Difficulty walking or running
- Stiffness in the foot upon waking
What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is a condition that causes pain and swelling just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone (tibia). It’s most common in adolescents aged 12-14, particularly those going through growth spurts and participating in sports involving running, jumping, or repetitive squatting.
Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease:
Pain and swelling below the kneecap (patella)
Tenderness or a visible bump on the top of the shinbone
Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Tightness in surrounding muscles, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings
How Osteopathy Can Help
At Bodywell Healthcare, our experienced osteopaths take a holistic approach to managing Sever’s Disease and Osgood-Schlatter Disease. Here’s how we can help:
Relieving pain and inflammation:
- Use of gentle hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilization to help reduce inflammation and relieve tension in the affected areas.
Improving muscle and joint function:
- By addressing muscle imbalances and improving joint mobility, osteopathy can ease the strain on the growth plates and reduce further irritation.
Providing stretching and strengthening exercises:
- We guide children through tailored exercises to stretch tight muscles (e.g., calves, hamstrings) and strengthen supporting muscles (e.g., quadriceps for Osgood-Schlatter Disease), ensuring long-term relief and prevention.
Lifestyle and activity advice:
- Our osteopaths provide practical tips on managing activity levels, choosing supportive footwear, and preventing overuse injuries during growth spurts.
Why Early Management Matters
Research shows that a child diagnosed with Sever’s Disease has a five times greater chance of developing Osgood-Schlatter Disease. Early intervention and proper rehabilitation can significantly reduce the risk of further symptoms and the need to limit sporting activities. At Bodywell Healthcare, we’re here to support your child’s recovery and help them thrive.
Why Choose Bodywell Healthcare?
At Bodywell Healthcare, we understand the unique needs of growing children. Our team has a special interest in pediatric osteopathy and is passionate about helping young athletes and active kids get back to doing what they love. With our family-friendly approach, we ensure every child feels comfortable and cared for during their treatment journey.
Tips for Parents: Supporting Kids with Sever’s or Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Encourage Rest: Avoid high-impact activities that worsen symptoms.
- Choose Supportive Footwear: Proper shoes with cushioning and the right fit are essential.
- Apply Ice: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain after activity.
- Stretch and Strengthen: Promote regular stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended by your osteopath.
If your child is experiencing heel or knee pain, our team at Bodywell Healthcare is here to help. Early intervention can make a big difference in managing growth-related conditions like Sever’s Disease and Osgood-Schlatter Disease.
To make an appointment with one of our team today call 9717 1200 or click the link below to book online