What should you know about gastrocnemius bursitis?

A bursa reduces friction where soft tissues move near a joint. Repeated kneeling, running, calf loading, a direct knock, or inflammatory irritation can make the area tender and swollen. Pain may increase when bending the knee, stretching the calf, or pressing the back of the knee. [Joint Swelling](/symptoms/joint-swelling/) can have several causes, so a clinician may check the knee, calf, circulation, skin, and range of motion rather than assuming every swelling is bursitis.

Reduce the activity that provokes pressure or repeated calf loading, but keep comfortable movement within tolerance. Elevating the leg may ease swelling. Do not massage a hot, acutely swollen area or self-treat with injections. Depending on the examination, care may include [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/), guided rehabilitation, or occasionally a [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/). [Joint Aspiration](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/joint-aspiration/) may be considered when fluid needs testing or removing.

Seek urgent help for sudden calf swelling, warmth and redness, severe pain, chest pain, breathlessness, or coughing blood. Prompt assessment is also needed for fever, feeling very unwell, a wound near the swelling, or inability to bear weight. Arrange review if swelling persists, returns, or limits knee or ankle movement.

Is the swelling located in a bursa, the joint, or another tissue? Do I need imaging or fluid testing? Which activities should I pause, and what symptoms would indicate infection or a circulation problem?