Sever's disease is a type of osteochondrosis that occurs in the heels of some children. 

It is more common in physically active children and causes heel pain, which worsens during exercise or walking. 

The pain can be quite sharp, and children affected by the disease tend to walk on their toes. 

Sever's disease is one of the most common growth pathologies in physically active children and affects both boys and girls. It typically occurs around the age of 8 and can persist until the age of 15. Sports that involve repetitive movements, running, and jumping, as well as the use of lower extremities (soccer, basketball, athletics, dance) and upper extremities (gymnastics, throwing sports), can trigger the condition. Insufficient warm-up or improper use of equipment can also promote the onset of the disease.

STUDY BY PODIATRISTS FROM THE FRENCH FOOT HEALTH ASSOCIATION (UFSP) WITH 200 PHYSICALLY ACTIVE CHILDREN 

The first step was to identify children at risk. 

•    Presence of heel pain
•    Presence of a short calcaneal tendon (palpation)
•    Degree of valgus (static examination on a podoscope)
•    Weekly training duration (soft or hard) + hours spent

After calculating the risk factors, the feet of children at risk of Sever's disease or those already experiencing pain were supported with insoles specially designed for Sever's disease after observation on a podoscope. 

Approximately 200 children from several soccer clubs were carefully examined, and 30% of them were diagnosed as "at risk" for Sever's disease, meaning they had a short calcaneal tendon and/or valgus feet or existing pain. These children were provided with insoles, both as a preventive measure and as treatment for those with foot pain. Young soccer players wore the insoles throughout the season and were monitored by soccer coaches and podiatrists. After one season (September to June), the following observations were made: 

•    In the group supported by insoles preventively, only 5% developed pain due to Sever's disease.
•    In the group with pain complaints, 80% experienced a reduction in pain after wearing plantar orthotics and were able to continue playing soccer.
•    The results obtained confirm that the insoles developed for this pathology are suitable for the patient’s foot type and provide effective support.