With junior footy season underway, many kids are hitting the ground running — literally. But along with the excitement of new teams and fresh boots comes a familiar complaint we hear every year: heel pain.
If your child is limping after training, avoiding activity, or constantly clutching their heel — they might be dealing with Sever’s Disease, the most common cause of heel pain in growing kids.
What Is Sever’s Disease?
Despite the name, Sever’s isn’t actually a disease — it’s a growth-related overuse injury. It happens when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress, usually from running, jumping and tight calf muscles.
It typically affects active kids aged 8–14, especially boys, and almost always coincides with a growth spurt.
Why Footy Season Is Prime Time for Heel Pain
We often see a spike in Sever’s cases at the start of the footy season, and there are a few key reasons:
- Sudden increase in activity – after a quieter off-season, kids suddenly ramp up training and games.
- New boots – stiff soles, hard studs, and poor fit can increase heel stress.
- Growth spurts – kids grow quickly, but their muscles and tendons often lag behind, causing added tension on the heel.
All of this puts extra load on the growth plate — and the result is pain.
Is It Just Growing Pains?
Many parents write it off as a “phase” or growing pains, but Sever’s won’t just go away on its own if the load and mechanics aren’t addressed. Ignoring it can lead to ongoing discomfort and even missing weeks of sport.
The good news? With the right advice and treatment, most kids recover quickly and can stay active throughout the season.
Choosing the Right Footy Boots Matters
Not all football boots are created equal — and choosing the wrong pair can make things worse.
Here are a few tips to help:
- Go for cushioning – Avoid ultra-light or minimalist boots with little shock absorption.
- Check heel support – A firm heel counter helps stabilise the foot.
- Size up wisely – Don’t buy boots too big “to last the season”. A tight fit = more heel pressure.
- Consider a slight heel raise – This can reduce calf tension and offload the growth plate.
Our team recently reviewed the latest football boots and how they affect foot mechanics in young athletes — and we’ve compiled it into a parent-friendly guide.
When to See a Podiatrist
If your child:
- Limps after activity or first thing in the morning
- Complains of pain at the back of the heel
- Avoids running or sport they used to enjoy
… it’s time to get their feet checked. A podiatrist can assess their foot function, boot fit, biomechanics, and offer a plan to reduce pain — from load management to heel raises or orthotics.
Final Thoughts
Heel pain at the start of footy season is common but not normal. With the right strategies, kids can keep playing, stay pain-free, and enjoy the game they love.
If you’re concerned your child may have Sever’s, book a consult with our experienced podiatry team. We’ll help them get back on their feet — and back on the field — as quickly and safely as possible.
📞 Call us or book online here
