Achilles Bursitis (Retrocalcaneal Bursitis)

Also know as or related to:

Achilles tendon bursitis, retro achilles bursitis, heel bursitis, back of heel pain, swollen back of heel, painful heel.

Description

Achilles bursitis refers to inflammation of the fluid filled sack called a bursa that lies between the Achilles tendon and the back of the heel bone (calcaneus). When this bursa becomes aggravated and inflamed it creates significant pain on the back of the heel.

Symptoms

Pain at the back of the heel bone, especially the edges of the heel bone.

Swelling or puffiness of the back of the heel.

Pain when lowering heels down and relief with shoes or higher heels.

Causes

The latest belief is that the bursa becomes aggravated in association with Insertional Achilles Tendonitis. The Achilles tendon joins into the back of the heel bone and injury to this tendon at the insertion causes bursitis. The bursa lies against the tendon and inflammation of this Achilles tendon translates to aggravation and inflammation of the bursa.

Treatment

We simply treat Achilles bursitis by treating the Insertional Achilles Tendonitis.

Click here to visit our page dedicated to treating Insertional Achilles Tendonitis that has video tutorials on strengthening, footwear and other treatments.