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Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

Retrocalcaneal bursitis refers to a condition which involves the inflammation of the bursae around the heel. Bursae are the sacs which are filled with fluid, and form around the joints. The bursae near the heel are located behind the Achilles tendon, above its attachment to the heel bone.

Retrocalcaneal bursitis is seen to be common in athletes, especially in sports which place a lot of pressure on the heel, such as ballet, gymnastics and running. There is sometimes confusion between retrocalcaneal bursitis and Achilles tendonitis. On some occasions, the two conditions can be present at the same time.

Causes

The predominant symptom of retrocalcaneal bursitis is overuse of the heel, and the ankle region. It can also occur due to not warming up adequately ahead of exercise, quickly increasing physical activity, walking or exercising in poorly fitting shoes, or footwear which is too tight such as high heels. Arthritis has been found to cause retrocalcaneal bursitis.

Other potential causes include; infection, Haglund’s deformity, gout, the ageing process, muscle tightness, and a job or activity which repeatedly places strain on the ankle joint.

Symptoms

The predominant symptom of retrocalcaneal bursitis is heel pain which often arises when pressure is placed on the heel.

Among the other symptoms of retrocalcaneal bursitis are; pain when leaning back and placing pressure on the heels; swelling in the heel region; skin which appears red or feels warm at the back of the heel; calf pain when walking or running; inhibited range of motion; uncomfortable shoes; a cracking sound from the foot when moving it; and stiffness.

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Treatment

There are many non-surgical, home care options for treating retrocalcaneal bursitis which can sometimes be effective. These can include; resting the ankles and heels, elevating the feet, and using indirect ice treatment on the heel and ankles. Also using a slight heel raise and wearing footwear without a heel counter can be helpful.

Over the counter medications which can be effective in reducing pain include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.

There are some retrocalcaneal bursitis symptoms which could indicate an infection, and require urgent medical attention. These include; a rash and swelling in the heel area, a shooting pain, heel pain along with a fever which is higher than 100.4°F (38°C).

Surgery can be recommended to treat challenging cases of retrocalcaneal bursitis. This procedure involves the removal of the troublesome bursa and any aggravating bony prominences. At the Sussex Foot & Ankle Clinic this is carried out as a day case procedure with immediate weight bearing allowed. Almost all cases are now done endoscopically (keyhole) with just two small incisions used. After two weeks, the two small sutures are removed and physiotherapy can begin. Gradual resumption of normal activity can begin.

As with all foot surgery it is common for swelling to persist for some months after surgery and is completely normal. This swelling will eventually completely subside with time and can take up to 12 months but often goes well before this.

Ankle pain can be distressing, especially if you're not sure what options are open to you. If you're wondering if surgery could help you, book an appointment.

* Routine private appointments either face to face or remotely are available

Call the urgent appointments hotline 0333 050 8662

Hear what our patients have to say

Mr Ajis is a great surgeon, he listens to any concern you may have and explains what is going to happen also gives great care... He suggested a fairly new procedure that wasn't available on the NHS but he pushed me through and he and his team have worked wonders, I am now healing very well and pain-free in my ankle after 6 years!

Written by a patient at BMI Goring Hall Hospital

Mr Ajis was very informative and reassuring about my surgery. He was professional at all times and allowed time for me to have all my questions answered without feeling rushed.

Written by a patient at BMI Goring Hall Hospital

I saw Mr Ajis after sustaining a fracture of my 5th metatarsal which had not healed after a year. The pain was unbearable. He saw me promptly and took the time to explain my condition with the help of x-ray images with assurances that he could fix the problem. I was advised by other clinicians to be patient and wait for the fracture to heal on its own. Mr Ajis said that healing would be highly unlikely without intervention. After numerous emails and 'phone calls to him he constantly...

...spent the time reassuring me and patiently going over the intended procedure. To date after seeking advice and guidance from Mr Ajis, his secretary and the Physio Team and the insertion of a plate my fracture has united I walk well, without pain and I have joined a walking group.