What is Bursitis?

I recently saw a patient that returned from a relaxing vacation with intense pain in her left heel.  She didn’t do much exercising on her vacation, but did resume normal activity upon her return home.  After I examined her foot, I was able to diagnose the problem; bursitis.

A bursa is a small fluid filled sac that forms in areas where there is friction or extra rubbing, usually where a bone deformity is pressed against other structures of the foot.  The bursa acts as a shock absorber.  When this sac becomes inflamed, it is called bursitis.  Symptoms usually occur after rest and relaxation and the most common cause of bursitis is friction between bone and soft tissue as a result of abnormal pronation.  Anti-inflammatory oral medication or injection therapy reduces swelling and alleviates pain.  A custom orthotic can help correct your foot structure in order to prevent a recurrence.

It’s a good idea to see a podiatrist if you have heel pain.  Click here to request an appointment! 

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