Your Cairns Podiatrist a specialist in treatment of bursitis of the back of the heel

Retrocalcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa located between the calcaneus (heel bone) and anterior (front) surface of the Achilles tendon. Bursa are fluid filled sacs and can be found all over the body. Their main function is to reduce friction between tendons and bone. Bursitis refers to an inflammation of the bursa and can result in significant pain, swelling and often redness. Bursitis heel pain treatment Cairns is available at each of the FNQ Podiatry and Orthotics clinics.

There are two bursitis locations in relation to the heel:

• Anterior (infront) the achilles tendon, between the achilles tendon and calcaneus Retrocalcaneal bursa
• Posterior (behind) to the achilles tendon, between the skin and the achilles tendon Subcutaneous bursa

What are the risk factors for heel bursitis Cairns?

Retrocalcaneal bursa is commonly  caused by repetitive trauma or overuse, and is aggravated by pressure. Retrocalcaneal bursitis may be caused by impingement of the bursa between the achilles tendon and a prominent posterior aspect of the calcaneus, Haglund’s deformity. 

• Overtraining
• Tight or poor fitting shoes leading to excessive pressure at the posterior heel
• Haglund’s Deformity 
• Poor foot posture (e.g. flat feet that roll in)
• Tightness through the calf muscle and achilles

Key characteristics

• Pain at the back of the heel, exacerbated when running uphill. 
• Pain may worsen when standing on tiptoes.
• Tenderness/swelling at the back of the heel. 
• Increased pain in activities which load the calf muscle e.g. jumping.

How is it diagnosed?

Retrocalcaneal Bursitis is generally diagnosed through a thorough history and examination. In order to exclude other pathology e.g. damage to the achilles tendon itself, imaging may be recommended such as ultrasound or MRI. 

FNQ Podiatry and Orthotics Cairns treatment options for heel bursitis

Possible Treatments:

• Anti-inflammatories
• In-shoe padding
• Footwear modifications
• Moon Boot
• Custom foot orthotics
• Moderated rest
• Cortisone injection
• Taping

How long will it last?

Recovery from Retrocalcaneal is very much dependent on patient compliance. It can be a debilitating condition however if treated aggressively early with the above treatment options, recovery can be within as little as 2-3 weeks.

The earlier you seek Cairns heel bursitis pain treatment, the quicker it will get better. A lot of people think it is a mild condition, that will get better on its own. This generally results in a lack of early intervention and symptoms can quickly escalate into a chronic issue. Our clinics provide effective heel bursitis pain Cairns treatment, for a range of patients. So, if you or any of your friends or family are suffering from pain at the back of the heel, contact our clinic today and we will get you on the road to recovery. Alternatively book online at https://fnq-podiatry-orthotics.cliniko.com/bookings#location