Achilles bursitis

Achilles bursitis, also known as heel bursitis or retrocalcaneal bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located between the heel bone and the Achilles tendon. The symptoms of Achilles bursitis can vary in severity and may include:

• Pain at the back of the heel: This is often the most common symptom, especially when running uphill or on soft surfaces such as sand [5][8].
• Tenderness and swelling: The affected area may become red, warm, and swollen, making it tender to touch [2][4].
• Spongy resistance feeling: When pressing in on both sides at the back of your heel, you may feel a spongy resistance, which is a sign of inflammation [10].
• Pain when running or walking: The pain can be exacerbated by activities that involve repetitive stress on the heel and Achilles tendon, such as running or walking [5][8].

It's essential to note that symptoms can develop gradually over time, and in some cases, may not become apparent until several months after the initial injury or irritation. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] Not provided [2] Context #2 [3] Not provided [4] Context #4 [5] Context #5 [6] Not provided [7] Not provided [8] Context #8 [9] Not provided [10] Context #10

Diagnosing Achilles Bursitis: A Comprehensive Approach

Achilles bursitis, also known as retrocalcaneal bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located between the calcaneus and the anterior surface of the Achilles tendon. Diagnosing this condition requires a multifaceted approach that involves patient history, physical examination, and radiographic imaging.

Physical Examination

A doctor's examination is typically the first step in diagnosing Achilles bursitis. The doctor will look for tenderness and redness in the back of the heel, as well as a red or flesh-colored nodule (1). For anterior Achilles tendon bursitis, doctors may squeeze the space between the tendon and the heel bone to see whether it causes pain (2).

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests play a crucial role in diagnosing Achilles tendon bursitis. X-rays are not typically used for diagnosis, but rather to rule out other conditions such as calcaneal fractures or osteomyelitis (3). Ultrasonography may be a potentially useful tool for diagnosing pathologies of the Achilles tendon (4).

Advanced Imaging

In some cases, advanced imaging tests such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans may be ordered to confirm the presence of bursal inflammation. MRI scans can demonstrate bursal inflammation as a fluid signal superficial to the Achilles tendon (5). This is particularly useful in diagnosing posterior Achilles tendon bursitis.

Other Diagnostic Tools

In addition to physical examination and imaging tests, other diagnostic tools such as aspiration and lab tests may be used to diagnose septic heel bursitis. If septic heel bursitis is suspected, a doctor may remove fluid from the bursa with a needle and send it for laboratory analysis (6).

References

• [1] The location of pain will be determined through an exam.
• [2] Tenderness and redness in the back of the heel will also be looked for during the examination.
• [3] X-rays are not typically used to diagnose Achilles tendon bursitis, but rather to rule out other conditions.
• [4] Ultrasonography may be a potentially useful tool for diagnosing pathologies of the Achilles tendon.
• [5] MRI scans can demonstrate bursal inflammation as a fluid signal superficial to the Achilles tendon.
• [6] Aspiration and lab tests may be used to diagnose septic heel bursitis.

Medications for Treating Achilles Bursitis

Achilles bursitis, also known as retrocalcaneal bursitis, can be treated with various medications to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen (Aleve) may be prescribed by your doctor if OTC pain medications are not enough. These medications help reduce inflammation and relieve pain [10].
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with Achilles bursitis [12, 13]. However, it's essential to note that there is a risk of tendon rupture when using these medications, especially in severe cases [9].
• Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended by your doctor to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, this should be considered after other treatment options have been explored due to the potential risks involved.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of Achilles bursitis. They will help determine the best course of treatment based on individual circumstances.

References: [9] - The risk of tendon rupture associated with corticosteroid injections. [10] - Over-the-counter pain medications as a first-line treatment option. [12] - NSAIDs as a treatment option for Achilles bursitis. [13] - Corticosteroid injections as a treatment option.

Differential Diagnosis of Achilles Bursitis

Achilles bursitis, also known as retrocalcaneal bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located between the calcaneus and the anterior surface of the Achilles tendon. When diagnosing Achilles bursitis, it's essential to consider other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

Conditions to Consider in Differential Diagnosis:

• Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon itself, which can cause pain and swelling in the posterior heel or ankle.
• Haglund's Deformity (Pump Bump): A bony growth on the back of the heel bone that can rub against the Achilles tendon, causing pain and inflammation.
• Ankle Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the joint between the ankle bones, which can cause pain and stiffness in the ankle.
• Calf Injuries and Syndromes: Strains or tears in the calf muscles, which can cause pain and swelling in the lower leg.
• Fascial Tears: Tears in the fascia, a layer of connective tissue that surrounds the muscles and tendons.
• Gastrocsoleus Muscle Strain or Rupture: A tear in the gastrocnemius muscle, which can cause pain and weakness in the calf.
• Os Trigonum: An accessory bone in the foot that can cause pain and swelling in the posterior heel.

Key Diagnostic Features:

• Pain localized primarily in the soft tissue contiguous to the tendon
• Warmth and swelling contiguous to the tendon
• Compression side-to-side anterior to the Achilles tendon causes pain

These conditions should be considered in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with posterior ankle pain. A thorough examination, imaging studies, and clinical judgment are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

References:

• Martin, R. (2018). Achilles pain, stiffness and muscle power deficits: midportion Achilles tendinopathy revision 2018.
• Alfredson, H. (2007). A treatment algorithm for managing Achilles tendinopathy: new treatment options.
• ICD-10 code associated with Achilles tendinopathy is M76.6 Achilles tendinitis/Achilles bursitis.

Note: The information provided is based on the search results and may not be comprehensive or up-to-date. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.