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Achilles bursitis

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Synonyms

Retrocalcaneal bursitis, adventitial bursitis, superficial calcaneal bursitis, pump bump.

Definition

Inflammation of either of the 2 heel bursa. One bursae (retrocalcaneal) lies between the Achilles tendon and the calcaneus, and the second bursae (superficial calcaneal) overlies the Achilles tendon. Often mistaken for Achilles tendonitis, although patients may have both (Haglund's syndrome). Overuse injury and low cut shoes are predisposing risk factors.

Pharmacological

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may often be useful to treat pain associated with bursal inflammation and pain. Some physicians perform glucocorticoid injections into the bursa. However, direct inject into the Achilles tendon is generally not recommended as this procedure has been associated with tendon rupture.

Non-pharmacological

Application of ice and/or heat is simple and may be effective in reducing inflammation. Ultrasound also can be used to treat this condition. Shoe inserts placed at the...

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References

  • Mazzone MF, McCue T (2002) Common conditions of the achilles tendon. Am Fam Physician 65(9):1805–10

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© 2004 Springer-Verlag

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(2004). Achilles bursitis. In: Moreland, L.W. (eds) Rheumatology and Immunology Therapy. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-29662-X_16

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-29662-X_16

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-540-20625-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-540-29662-1

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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