Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
At Feet Option Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing and treating foot conditions like retrocalcaneal bursitis. Repetitive activities, improper footwear, acute injury, or the natural aging process can cause this painful condition. Our expert podiatrists offer tailored treatments to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent future complications. If you suspect you have retrocalcaneal bursitis, our team is ready to provide the care you need.
What Causes Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
- Doing repetitive activities and movements such as regular exercise or sport. Some of the common activities that are associated with retrocalcaneal bursitis include running, jumping, and ballet.
- Wearing shoes that don't fit well or lack support leads to stress on this particular part of the foot.
- Having foot structure issues such as flat feet or high arches can add extra stress to the bursa.
- Limited flexibility in the calf muscles from tightness can increase pressure on the heel.
- Engaging in too much physical activity without enough rest for the heal to recover naturally.
- Having an acute injury or direct trauma to the heel area.
- General wear and tear on the bursa as you get older.
How Does Feet Option Podiatry Treat Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
Our podiatrists can offer various treatments to help alleviate pain and promote healing. All our treatment methods aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent the recurrence of retrocalcaneal bursitis. After a thorough analysis of your ankle to determine the correct diagnosis, some common treatments that may be prescribed could include:
- Rest & ice: Rest to reduce pressure on the heel and apply ice packs to decrease swelling.
- Footwear modification: Recommending shoes with a soft back or open heel to prevent further irritation.
- Orthotic devices: Custom orthotics or heel lifts can be used to support proper foot alignment and relieve stress on the heel.
- Stretching exercises: Teaching specific exercises to stretch the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, improving flexibility.
- Physical therapy: Sessions to strengthen surrounding muscles and enhance mobility.
- Medication: Prescribing anti-inflammatory medications or recommending over-the-counter pain relief options.
- Corticosteroid injections: Administering injections into the bursa to quickly reduce severe inflammation, if necessary.
- Surgery:
Considering surgical intervention as a last resort if conservative treatments fail, involving removal of the inflamed bursa.
Suspecting You Have Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
Rest and avoid activities that aggravate your foot until our podiatrists can see you for further direction if you suspect you have retrocalcaneal bursitis. Applying ice to the painful area and wearing comfortable shoes with good support can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Seeing a podiatrist is essential to ensure an accurate assessment, diagnosis, and a tailored treatment plan for your retrocalcaneal bursitis.
