Heel bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that lubricates the joint between bone and tendon in the heel. This condition, common among athletes and active individuals, can hinder daily activities due to pain and discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for effective recovery.
Persistent heel bursitis can worsen if ignored, especially in those continuing sports activities despite chronic inflammation. This aggravates pain and inflammation.
PiedReseau outlines ways to detect, treat, and prevent heel bursitis.
Heel bursitis symptoms
Identifying symptoms early helps in deciding when to consult a podiatrist. Common signs include:
- Gnawing heel pain
- Heel swelling
- Stiffness
- Skin lesions
- Heel friction sensation inside shoes
Symptoms vary by severity and bursitis location, which may be on the heel bone (calcaneus), Achilles tendon, or just in front of the Achilles tendon.
Causes of heel bursitis
Heel bursitis has multiple causes influencing treatment approaches.
- Physical factors: tight shoes, repetitive movements, foot overload during sports
- Foot trauma: causing blood accumulation in the bursa
- Inflammatory diseases: arthritis, gout
- Bacterial infections: septic bursitis
- Acidic diet: increasing joint and tissue inflammation susceptibility
Consult a podiatrist regardless of cause. They provide effective therapy to reduce pain.
Preventing heel bursitis
You can minimize heel bursitis risk by:
- Wearing well-fitting shoes
- Allowing foot rest
- Maintaining healthy weight
- Avoiding excessive pressure on feet
Home remedies for heel bursitis
Home care can alleviate symptoms but professional care remains essential.
Ice: Applying ice can reduce pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications: Non-steroidal options can relieve inflammation; a podiatrist can advise or prescribe these.
The podiatrist’s care
Ultrasound imaging is used to accurately diagnose heel bursitis and determine severity.
- Safe and painless procedure
- Aids diagnosis and monitoring recovery
Treatment varies based on cause and severity, and options include:
- Ultrasound therapy
- Laser treatment: non-invasive, accelerates healing, reduces inflammation and strengthens tissue over 2 to 6 sessions
- ShockWave therapy: a modern treatment creating microtrauma to stimulate healing, especially for persistent pain; suitability assessed by podiatrist here
- Foot orthoses: custom devices to correct biomechanical abnormalities preventing recurrence
- Cortisone injections: used in severe inflammation to relieve pain and prepare for surgery if necessary
- Podiatric surgery: last resort for severe cases
PiedRéseau: to effectively cure your heel bursitis
PiedRéseau is a network of 40 podiatry clinics in Quebec offering advanced care for heel bursitis.
Its specialists provide tailored treatments using the latest technology. Early consultation is key for optimal recovery.