What should you know about heel bursitis?

A bursa helps nearby tissues glide with less friction. Repeated rubbing from shoes, prolonged pressure, a sudden change in activity, or irritation beside the Achilles tendon can inflame it. Symptoms may be felt at the back or underside of the heel, with a tender fullness or pain when the shoe touches the area. Heel bursitis is one possible explanation for Heel Pain; similar discomfort can arise from a tendon, the plantar fascia, a nerve, or bone. Joint Swelling elsewhere, fever, or feeling unwell changes the urgency and should be reported.

Take pressure off the sore area by wearing supportive shoes with a soft, non-rubbing heel. Pause activities that trigger pain and use gentle ankle movement within comfort. Cold wrapped in a cloth can help after activity. A clinician may recommend Anti-Inflammatory Medication when appropriate. If swelling persists, a medical professional may discuss whether a Cortisone Injection or Joint Aspiration is suitable; these are decisions made after examining the area, not home treatments.

Get urgent advice for rapidly increasing redness, heat, swelling, severe pain, fever, or drainage, because an infected bursa needs timely treatment. Seek assessment after a significant injury, if you cannot bear weight, or if pain keeps returning. Make an appointment when symptoms continue despite reducing pressure, since the diagnosis may need confirmation and treatment may differ from simple irritation.

Ask: Is the swelling in a bursa or another tissue? What features would suggest infection? Which shoe changes and activities are safe? Would medication, injection, or aspiration help, and what follow-up should I arrange if the swelling returns?