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Sever's disease and Osgood-Schlatter disease are classified as apophyseal injuries, which occur where a tendon attaches to a bone, specifically at the growth plate (apophysis). These conditions are characterized by pain and inflammation at the points where muscles exert forces through their tendons on growing bones.
Sever's disease commonly affects the heel in young athletes due to the traction force from the Achilles tendon causing irritation at the calcaneal apophysis during activities that involve jumping or running. Osgood-Schlatter disease involves similar mechanics at the knee, where the quadriceps tendon exerts tension on the tibial tuberosity during physical activities, leading to pain and sometimes swelling in that area.
Understanding apophyseal injuries is essential for recognizing how repetitive stress, especially in growing children and adolescents, can lead to pain and functional limitations. This knowledge can aid in developing appropriate treatment plans and preventive strategies for young athletes.