Severs disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, is a painful swelling near the insertion of the Achilles tendon on your heel.
As our bones develop, we have “growth plates” which are softer areas where the bone is still growing. In children, this growth plate is weaker than in adults. This means that children are more likely to suffer growth plate injuries than adults, especially during periods of rapid growth.
The powerful calf muscles attach onto your heel through the Achilles tendon. When your calf muscle contracts (like during running or jumping), it places a shear force on the growth plate of your heel. Severs disease is an irritation to this sensitive growth plate.
Athletically active children, who run and jump frequently in sports like soccer, basketball, gymnastics and track & field are most likely to suffer from this condition. Severs disease is slightly more common in boys and the condition affects both heels about half of the time.
Symptoms usually start as heel pain that gradually worsens during activity. Sometimes this can cause a “limp”. Rest usually temporarily relieves the pain.
Your doctor will make the diagnosis of Severs disease based on your history and an exam. Your doctor may take an x-ray to rule out other injuries like a stress fracture.
The first goal of treatment is to allow you to return to pain-free activity as soon as possible. This may require avoiding stressful activity like running and jumping for a short period of time. Cross training on a bike is usually acceptable. Ice should be applied for 15 minutes after any activity. You should always wear shoes with good arch supports and avoid walking barefoot. Your doctor may recommend a small heel lift to decrease strain on your achilles tendon.
Aberdeen Chiropractic 
What if a person is doing all of these things, as well as prescribed physio exercises & heel cups (heel sleeves for when not wearing shoes), but they are still not significantly improved after 3 years? My child has Sever’s and plantar fasciitis in both feet and her specialist seems to have given up.
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