Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

What is Retrocalcaneal Bursitis (Achilles tendon bursitis)?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis causes pain on the back of the heel and is a common problem at the Seattle Heel Pain Center, particularly in runners. It is the inflammation of a small sack of fluid (a bursa) that sits between the heel bone and the Achilles tendon. Normally, the bursa acts to help the tendon glide smoothly over the bone. Sometimes, however, it can become irritated and inflamed. Retrocalcaneal bursitis can often be mistaken for Achilles tendinitis or can also occur together with Achilles tendinitis.

What are the Symptoms of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?

 • Back of the heel pain. More common when running on soft surfaces or running up hill.
 • Swelling and pain at the back of the heel. Often made worse by shoes pressing on the area.
 • A spongy feeling when pressing fingers on both sides of the heel.

Treatment of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
At the Seattle Heel Pain Center we begin by determining the cause of your retrocalcaneal bursitis. It can be caused by certain activites, a short Achilles tendon, an enlarged heel bone, biomechanical abnormalities and training errors. The correct treatment will depend on the cause of the problem in your specific situation. In general, however, treatment may include:

• Rest and apply cold therapy or ice (not directly onto the skin).
• Anti-inflammatory measures
• Training and rehabilitation advice
• Shoe changes or modifications
• Foot orthotics or arch supports
• If the problem is due to an enlarged heel bone, surgery may be considered, but only as a last resort.

We are very successful at treating retrocalcaneal bursitis and helping our patients avoid surgery. Contact us today for an appointment at the Seattle Heel Pain Center .

What Can You Do on Your Own to Treat Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
Self-treatment is based on reducing inflammation, reducing tension on the Achilles tendon and reducing pressure on the back of the heel. You can read here about our 9-step plan to relieve pain on the back of the heel. You can try this for 3 weeks and then if it doesn’t work see a podiatrist.

WEBSITE DISCLAIMER
For website errors ONLY email webmaster at WEBMASTER
All pages on this website © 2005-2010
Douglas Hale, DPM & Lawrence Huppin, DPM
Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, Seattle
The material provided on this web site is for informative purposes only.
If you need specific medical advice, please contact the office for an appointment.