Heel Bursitis
(Part 2/2)
We have started discussing the topic on Heel Bursitis which is a type of bursitis that affects the bursae of your heels.
The topics we tackled last week were:
- Types of heel bursitis
- Symptoms and Causes
- Risk factors
We will now discuss the following:
- Diagnosis and Tests
How do doctors diagnose heel bursitis?
Before examining your foot, your healthcare provider may ask several questions, including:
– Do you stand a lot?
– What do you do for physical activity?
– What types of shoes do you wear?
– Have you had heel bursitis before?
Your provider will examine your foot. They’ll:
– Check for swelling
– Note any tender or painful areas
– Check your foot’s range of motion
– Ask you to stand on your toes or flex your feet
What tests will be done to diagnose heel bursitis?
Imaging tests can help your healthcare provider confirm heel bursitis.
These tests may include:
* X-rays. An X-ray will show a detailed image of your heel bone. Your healthcare provider will examine the X-ray for any abnormalities in your heel bone.
* Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI can determine if the cause of your heel pain is from something other than heel bursitis, like Achilles tendinitis.
- Management and Treatment
How is heel bursitis treated?
Heel bursitis treatment depends on what’s causing your pain. You may be able to relieve pain and inflammation on your own with:
* Rest. Stop any activities that cause or worsen pain, including walking, running, or jumping. This will give the bursa time to heal.
* Proper footwear. Don’t wear shoes that are too tight or have a stiff heel. Wear shoes with a U- or V-shaped indentation in the back collar to protect your Achilles tendon.
* Medications. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and naproxen, may reduce the pain and inflammation.
Your healthcare provider may treat heel bursitis with:
* Orthotics. Heel wedges encourage proper walking form and reduce irritation in your heel. You can buy heel wedges in a store. Your podiatrist can also make custom heel wedges for your foot.
* Physical therapy. Stretching your Achilles tendon will take pressure off your heel bursa. Calf stretches, toe-to-wall stretches and heel drop stretches – as well as strengthening – may all provide relief.
* Antibiotics. If an infection caused your bursitis, your healthcare provider will prescribe oral antibiotics.
* Surgery. Surgery is rarely needed. But if your pain hasn’t improved in six to 12 months, you may have to see a foot and ankle surgeon to surgically remove the affected bursa (bursectomy).
- Prevention
How can I reduce the risk of heel bursitis?
Yo u can reduce your risk of developing heel bursitis by:
* Stretching and warming up before exercising
* Wearing proper footwear when exercising
* Walking and running on soft surfaces