Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
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Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
What is retrocalcaneal bursitis?
The Achilles tendon is the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues that move over one another. The retrocalcaneal bursa lies between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone, allowing the tendon to glide smoothly without friction. Retrocalcaneal bursitis occurs when this bursa becomes inflamed, often resulting in pain and discomfort. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for retrocalcaneal bursitis.
How does retrocalcaneal bursitis happen?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis occurs when increased pressure is placed on the Achilles tendon, which in turn places stress on the retrocalcaneal bursa. This pressure can lead to microtrauma and wear and tear of the bursa. Over time, the bursa may become thickened and inflamed, resulting in bursitis. Common causes include wearing shoes that are excessively tight at the back of the heel, excessively tight calf muscles, and other biomechanical problems.
What are the symptoms of retrocalcaneal bursitis?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis causes pain and swelling at the back of the heel, which may worsen with activity or pressure from footwear.
- Pain at the back of the heel, especially during activity
- Swelling over the back of the heel
- Tenderness when pressing on the area just above the heel bone
- Stiffness in the ankle, particularly in the morning or after rest
- Pain that worsens when wearing tight shoes around the heel
What should I do if I have retrocalcaneal bursitis?
If you suspect retrocalcaneal bursitis, you should avoid activities and footwear that aggravate your pain and book an appointment with a physiotherapist to identify the underlying cause. While rest may temporarily ease the pain, it is likely to return once you resume activity if the cause is not properly addressed.
What shouldn’t I do if I have retrocalcaneal bursitis?
If you have retrocalcaneal bursitis, you should avoid continuing with activities that aggravate your pain, as these can further irritate the bursa and delay your recovery.
Physiotherapy treatment for retrocalcaneal bursitis.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing retrocalcaneal bursitis. After confirming your diagnosis and identifying the underlying cause, your physiotherapist will create a tailored treatment plan to address your pain and prevent recurrence. Treatment often focuses on reducing inflammation, improving flexibility in the calf muscles, correcting any biomechanical issues, and modifying activities or footwear that place excessive pressure on the heel. With the right treatment approach, symptoms can be effectively managed, and you can return to normal activity safely.
- Activity modification – avoiding activities or footwear that aggravate the pain
- Ice therapy – applying ice packs to reduce inflammation and swelling
- Soft tissue therapy – massage and stretching to relieve calf tightness
- Strengthening exercises – targeted exercises for the calf and ankle muscles
- Footwear advice – recommending shoes that reduce pressure on the heel
- Orthotics – insoles to correct biomechanical issues and reduce stress on the bursa
- Taping or padding – to offload pressure from the affected area
As your pain begins to settle, your physiotherapist will usually introduce a progressive strengthening programme. These exercises are designed to restore function, improve the resilience of the Achilles tendon and surrounding structures, and reduce the risk of recurrence. By gradually building strength and stability, you will be better prepared to return to activity safely and with a lower chance of the injury returning.
Could there be any long-term effects from retrocalcaneal bursitis?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis generally settles within a few weeks when it is appropriately diagnosed and treated.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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