Primary Presenting Features of a Heel Bursitis

Heel Bursitis which in medical terms is also known as Retrocalcaneal Bursitis is a pathological condition involving the heels characterized by inflammation of the bursa around the heels. Bursa is a fluid filled sac like structure located around the joints of the body which prevents rubbing of the bones against each other thus protecting them from degeneration and ensuing pain.

The bursa in the heel is just behind the Achilles tendon at the area where the tendon attaches itself to the bone. The primary cause for a Heel Bursitis is believed to be overuse from repetitively walking long distances, running, or skipping for long hours. This condition is commonly seen in athletes and ballet dancers as they are the ones that put maximum pressure on the heel.

Not warming up properly before exercising can also result in Heel Bursitis. Ill-fitting shoes are also believed to be one of the factors that contribute towards development of Heel Bursitis. Some of the other potential causes for a Heel Bursitis are medical conditions like gout, arthritis, or Haglund deformity, which are all believed to occur in tandem with Heel Bursitis.

The primary presenting feature of Heel Bursitis is pain in the heels, especially with walking or applying pressure on the heel. This pain tends to worsen with activity and get better with rest.

The affected individual will also notice swelling around the back of the heel. The individual will also feel pain behind the calf muscle when ambulating or running. There will be stiffness around the heel area making rotation of the ankle tough.

The skin around the heel area will be erythematous and warm. There will be an audible crackling sound with flexion of the foot. An individual with Heel Bursitis will have problems feeling comfortable while in shoes. These features are clinching evidences that a particular individual is dealing with Heel Bursitis.

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Also Read:

• Retrocalcaneal Bursitis or Achilles Tendon Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Exercise, Recovery
• What Can Cause Posterior Heel Pain & How is it Treated?
• Sore Heels: Causes, How Long Does It Last, Treatments
• What Causes Heel Pain When Standing or Walking?
• Hallux Valgus and High Heels: Understanding the Relationship