Calcaneal bursitis

Background

Can be subdivided into two separate entities: Retrocalcaneal and Retroachilles bursitis

  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Inflammation of the bursa located posterior to the calacaneal bone, anterior to the achilles tendon
  • Retroachilles bursitis - Inflammation of the bursa located between the achilles tendon and posterior skin, adjacent to the insertion of the achilles tendon on the calcaneous

Clinical features

  • Pain localized anterior and 2-3cm proximal to insertion of achilles tendon
  • Pain with dorsiflexion
  • Tenderness and fullness medial and lateral to tendon

Differential Diagnosis

Foot diagnoses

Acute

Subacute/Chronic

Calf pain

Management

Conservative management is first-line

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
  • Achilles padding in shoe wear
  • Physical therapy → achilles stretching
  • NSAIDs
  • Bursa aspiration
  • Avoid steroid injections secondary to risk of achilles rupture

Disposition

  • Typically discharge home

See Also

External Links

References