Achilles bursitis, or retocalcaneal bursitis, occurs when the bursa near the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. Bursae are the tiny sacs of fluid that cushion areas between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone (calcaneous). Bursa sacs are lined with special cells called synovial cells, responsible for secreting a fluid rich in collagen and proteins. The synovial fluid acts like lubrication, and when this fluid becomes infected or irritated from too much movement, the result may be a painful condition called bursitis.
Achilles bursitis is commonly found with people wearing poorly designed shoes, high heels, or prolonged walking. Bursitis in the ankle region often occurs in young athletes, ice skaters, or adolescent females making the transition to higher heeled shoes.
Inflammation in the Achilles tendon can cause extreme pain in the back of the heel and increases with passive extension or resisted flexion. Other conditions you may experience with ankle pain could be acute bursitis, chronic bursitis, or septic bursitis. For natural and noninvasive pain relief from any of these painful conditions, we offer a large variety of products for home treatment such as ankle braces, orthotic splints, heat and cold packs, heating pads, holistic pain gels, heel supports and cushions to help get you back on your feet comfortably.
