In recent, years the number of kids experiencing acute and overuse injuries has risen dramatically.  The physical and physiological differences between kids and adults are obvious.  Simply put, those differences make kids more susceptible to injury. 

First, kids generally have a larger surface area to mass ratio and lack the natural protection strength offers.  Their heads are proportionately larger affecting balance.  They may also be too small for some of the commonly used protective equipment.  And, finally, their connective tissues (e.g. cartilage and ligaments) may be immature and more vulnerable to stresses.

Anecdotally, researchers have also noted that highly active kids are often most affected by heel pain (Sever's Disease).   The pain most often occurs at the beginning of the sport’s season and coincides with a growth spurt.  The impact force of the kid’s heels repetitively striking the ground during sport movement serves to make the pain worse.

What’s interesting is that there is no research evidence that shows sport shoes are to blame.  Nor is there any evidence to suggest one shoe is better or worse than another, regardless of price, at preventing the pain.  No sport is better or worse than another.  There is also no evidence showing that the kid’s size, weight, and activity levels increase risk for Sever's disease.  No type of foot structure (arch height, foot size, under/over pronation, etc) has been directly related to the symptoms of Sever’s Disease.

It’s all about growth and activity level.