Bursitis
Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the small fluid-filled sacs, called Bursae, that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles. Bursae act to reduce friction and assist in the movement of tendons over bony surfaces.
What is Bursitis?
Bursitis occurs when bursae become irritated and inflamed due to repetitive movements.
Retrocalcaneal Bursitis is a common heel bursitis involving inflammation of the bursae located between the heel bone (calcaneus) and the Achilles Tendon.
Subcutaneous Calcaneal Bursitis is another heel bursitis located between the heel bone and the subcutaneous tissue. This bursitis usually presents with pain when getting out of bed in the morning and returns with increased walking during the day.
What causes Bursitis?
Inflammation of the heel bursae is most commonly caused by repetitive movements or overuse that cause irritation to the bursae. The condition can be aggravated by pressure, such as tight fitting shoes or due to an impingement on a bony growth on the back of the heel, known as a Haglund’s Deformity.
Signs & Symptoms:
Pain at the back of the heel with localised swelling and redness
Pain may get worse when rising on toes
Stiffness at the heel in the morning
Increased pain with activities that load the calf muscle
How do we treat it?
The aim of treatment during the acute phase is to reduce pain and swelling. This can be achieved by reducing excessive load to the achilles tendon including the use of heel raises, footwear education, anti–inflammatories and activity modification.
Gradual progressive stretching and strengthening of the calf can help to relieve impingement of the bursae and prevent flare ups.
