Understanding Retrocalcaneal Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is a painful condition that affects the heel of the foot. It is caused by the inflammation of a bursa at the back of the heel bone. This bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that protects the soft tissue in the foot from friction and pressure. Retrocalcaneal bursitis can be extremely painful, and if it is left untreated, it can lead to further complications. In this blog, we will discuss what retrocalcaneal bursitis is, the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available.
What is Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is a type of heel bursitis. It is an inflammation of the bursal sac located at the back of the heel bone. This is a common condition that affects the Achilles tendon and the heel of the foot. The bursal sac is filled with fluid that helps the soft tissue in the foot move freely and without pain. When the bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause severe pain and discomfort.
The most common symptom of retrocalcaneal bursitis is a sharp, burning pain at the back of the heel. This pain may be worse with activity and can radiate up the leg. Other symptoms may include swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the area.
Symptoms of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
The most common symptom of retrocalcaneal bursitis is a sharp, burning pain at the back of the heel. This pain may worsen with activity and can radiate up the leg. Other symptoms may include swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the area. The pain may also be worse when the foot is flexed or when the ankle is moved in a certain direction.
In addition to pain, other symptoms of retrocalcaneal bursitis may include difficulty walking, stiffness in the heel, and difficulty wearing certain shoes. The pain may worsen when the foot is flexed or when the ankle is moved in a certain direction.
Causes of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is typically caused by repetitive stress on the heel and ankle. This can be due to activities such as running, jumping, or other sports activities. It can also be caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or shoes that do not provide enough support for the foot. Other causes of retrocalcaneal bursitis include direct trauma to the heel, arthritis, gout, or infection.
Diagnosis of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
The diagnosis of retrocalcaneal bursitis is usually made by a doctor based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. The doctor may also order blood tests to check for infection. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, may also be used to help determine the cause of bursitis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Options for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Treatment for retrocalcaneal bursitis may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed to help reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, the doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation. Surgery may be necessary in some cases.
Exercises for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce pain and improve mobility in the foot and ankle. These exercises should be done gently and gradually increase in intensity as the pain and swelling decrease.
Stretching exercises should focus on the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Strengthening exercises should focus on the muscles of the foot and ankle. Examples of strengthening exercises include calf raises, toe curls, and ankle circles.
Home Treatments for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Home treatments for retrocalcaneal bursitis may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. It is important to rest the affected foot and avoid activities that may cause further irritation. Ice should be applied to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Compression can help reduce swelling and pain, and elevation can also help reduce swelling.
Prevention Strategies for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Prevention strategies for retrocalcaneal bursitis include wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support, stretching and strengthening exercises, and avoiding activities that may cause further irritation. It is important to take regular breaks while performing activities that may cause stress to the heel and ankle.
Professional Treatment for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
If home treatments do not provide relief from retrocalcaneal bursitis, a doctor may recommend professional treatment. This may include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery. Physical therapy can help reduce inflammation and improve mobility. Corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery may be necessary in some cases to remove the bursa or repair the Achilles tendon.
Conclusion
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is a common condition that can cause severe pain and discomfort. It is caused by the inflammation of a bursa at the back of the heel bone. Symptoms may include sharp, burning pain at the back of the heel, swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness. The condition can be treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections may also be used to help reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery may be necessary in some cases. Prevention strategies include wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support, stretching and strengthening exercises, and avoiding activities that may cause further irritation. If you are experiencing pain in your heel or ankle, it is important to seek medical attention.
Retrocalcaneal Bursitis – Physiopedia (physio-pedia.com)
Heel Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)