Jenny Strickland founded the Strickland Protocol for treatment of Osgood-Schlatters and Sever’s Disease. In fact, Strickland is a leading physiologist for research on Osgood-Schlatters Disease at Greenwich University.

Her protocol, called The Strickland Protocol, has been selected by major UK football academies as their treatment of choice for young athletes suffering from with Osgood-Schlatters and Sever’s disease. According to PR Underground, these diseases have been treated with the protocol in four thousand young children globally.

Sever’s disease commonly occurs in children and young athletes. If you suspect your child or loved one has Severs Disease, contact podiatrist Dr. Bryant Tarr of Sudbury & Westford Podiatry. Dr. Tarr will perform an accurate diagnosis and formulate the most effective treatment for his or her feet.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

Improper pronation – the rolling of the foot during walking or running and obesity are all linked to causing Sever’s disease.

Treatments

Rest – the feet and legs needs rest. In order to speed up any kind of healing time, one should refrain from sports activity.

Medication- over the counter meds will help with inflammation and also reduce heel pain.

One can also purchase shoe inserts which will help support the heel and foot. Heel pain usually diminishes after wearing the supported heel inserts.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices in Sudbury and Westford, MA.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Learn more about Sever’s Disease.