What is Heel Bursitis – Diagnosis, Treatment and Pain Relief

Heel Bursitis is a condition where one of the bursae at the back of the heel becomes swollen, inflamed and painful. A bursa is a fluid filled sac that cushions muscles, tendons and joints. There are 3 main types of bursitis associated with heel bursitis. These include Retro-calcaneal bursitis, Achilles bursitis, and Sub-calcaneal bursitis. The locations of the 3 bursae are: the insertion point of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel (retro-calcaneal bursa), between the Achilles tendon and the skin at the back of the heel (Achilles bursa), and the bottom of the heel (sub-calcaneal bursa).

Cause

Overuse of the ankle joint may cause irritation of the bursa such as excessive walking, running or jumping.

Poor biomechanics and foot function may ultimately lead to heel bursitis due to pulling on the back of the heel by the Achilles tendon.

A sudden increase in physical activity without adequate rest may result in heel bursitis.

Excessive standing and walking bare foot on hard surfaces.

Symptoms

Pain at the back of the heel at the attachment site of the Achilles tendon when running.
Pain on palpation of the back of the heel or bottom of heel.
Pain when standing on tiptoes.
Swelling and redness at the back and bottom of the heel.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of heel bursitis can be made by your health practitioner and is based on the following:

Assessing the location of the pain by palpating the back of the heel.
Assessment of any inflammation at the back of the heel.
Assessment of biomechanics and foot function.
Ultrasound or MRI can reveal inflammation of the retro calcaneal bursa.

Treatment

Orthotics: Interpod orthotics may assist heel bursitis by providing stability to the heel, reduce any foot functioning abnormalities and provide extra support for the feet. The orthotic achieves this by maintaining correct foot posture, therefore facilitating normal functioning of the Achilles tendon.
Ice: Icing the back of the heel post activity for temporary relief.
Pain relief medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can reduce inflammation of the bursa.
Regular stretching: Stretching of the calf muscle may reduce the pulling on the heel by the Achilles tendon.
Footwear: Shoes that have an elevated heel may reduce pulling on the heel from the Achilles tendon.
Rest: Resting the painful heel may reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery: Surgical removal of the painful bursa is a last resort treatment when all other treatments have failed.

Prevention

Orthotics: Continue to wear your Interpod orthotics for work and exercise to provide stability and restore foot function.
Footwear: Select suitable shoes for work and physical activity that provide stability for the heel.
Stretching: Regular stretching of the calf muscle can prevent heel bursitis.
Activity level: Do not suddenly increase activity amount without appropriate conditioning.