In a study conducted at a German football academy, researchers identified a concerning rise in growth-related injuries, particularly among athletes aged 11 to 13. What's intriguing is that these injuries were more prevalent at the beginning of the season compared to later stages, resulting in an average downtime of approximately 28 days for affected players.

Among the growth-related injuries, one of the most frequently observed is Sever's disease. This condition, characterized by intense pain in the heels, poses a significant challenge for young athletes. The discomfort experienced by players suffering from Sever's disease can be excruciating and severely debilitating, especially considering its tendency to worsen with repetitive movements common in football.

While it's acknowledged that these injuries are often an inevitable part of a child's active growth phase, there is encouraging news: symptoms and pain can be managed and mitigated through intervention.

Focusing on ankle mobility, strength, and stability can serve as an effective starting point for introducing movement exercises that have been shown to alleviate pain markers. As symptoms improve, activities can progress to more challenging single-leg movements, such as juggling while balancing on one leg or navigating a balance beam, eventually advancing to hopping challenges. Here is a short reel on activities to managed severs.

Incorporating movement challenges not only aids in symptom management but also captivates the athlete's attention, shifting focus away from traditional approaches like static stretching or pure strength training.

It's crucial to recognize that while rest and a reduction in high-impact activities are necessary for recovery from growth-related injuries, we must also address the psychosocial effects of inactivity and isolation from peers. Thus, integrating strength games and movement challenges whenever possible becomes paramount in maintaining a holistic approach to youth athlete well-being."