What is bursitis of the heel? Bursitis in general means the inflammation or swelling of a bursa. Bursae are sac-like cavities that secrete small amounts of fluid to lubricate tendons, bones, ligaments, muscles, and skin so they can glide and move more easily. Bursitis of the heel is therefore an inflammation of a bursa located in the heel.

There are two bursae located in the heel. These are the retrocalcaneal bursa and the retroachilles bursa. Either or both can become inflamed and become bursitis.

Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

The retrocalcaneal bursa is located between the calcaneus and the Achilles tendon insertion site. Retrocalcaneal bursitis is often misdiagnosed as Achilles tendonitis and is sometimes referred to as insertional heel pain. Other names used for retrocalcaneal bursitis are anterior Achilles tendon bursitis, Albert's disease, and retromalleolar bursitis.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is usually caused by repetitive usage or over exertion of the ankle. It is a condition primarily associated with athletes, individuals beginning a new exercise regime, and sedentary people who suddenly increase their physical activity. It may also be caused by injuries to the heel, such as bruising, and diseases, such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

Retroachilles Bursitis

The retroachilles bursa is located between the Achilles tendon and the skin. This bursa develops after birth, as a response to trauma to soft tissue and the person's gait. Retrocalcaneal is considered a true bursitis while retroachilles is superficial. Retroachilles bursitis is also known as posterior Achilles tendon bursitis or Haglund's disease. However, it should be noted that in Haglund's disease, there is usually a combination of Achilles tendonitis, retrocalcaneal bursitis and retroachilles bursitis. Retroachilles is primarily caused by ill-fitting shoes or shoes that taper sharply towards the posterior heel, such as high-heels. Although this type of bursitis mainly occurs in women, men are also susceptible

The symptoms for retroachilles bursitis and retrocalcaneal bursitis are red, warm, swollen area which is painful when touched. Both types of bursitis have symptoms similar to those of Achilles tendonitis. However, if the retroachilles (posterior Achilles tendon bursitis) becomes chronic, the swelling may become hard and fluid-filled. The area from the chronic bursitis may be red or flesh-colored.