Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What condition is known as a painful bone disorder resulting from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel?

1. Plantar fasciitis

2. Sever's disease

3. Achilles tendonitis

4. Sciatica

The correct answer is: Sever's disease

The condition referred to in the question is Sever's disease, which is specifically characterized by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, known as the calcaneal growth plate. This condition primarily affects children and adolescents, particularly those who are physically active and involved in sports. The heel pain associated with Sever's disease results from repetitive stress and traction on the growth plate due to activities that incorporate running and jumping. This can lead to discomfort, particularly during activities that put strain on the heel. Other conditions listed do not specifically involve the growth plate or are related to different structures in the foot or the lower body. For example, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, rather than the heel growth plate itself. Achilles tendonitis affects the Achilles tendon and is characterized by pain and inflammation at the back of the ankle, while sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically due to nerve compression in the lower back, and does not involve the heel or growth plates at all. Therefore, Sever's disease is the condition that accurately aligns with the symptoms described in the question.