4 Proven Ways to Treat Bursitis of the Feet

A bursa is a small sac containing a clear viscous fluid lining the synovial membranes, located between the joints, especially in the shoulders, elbows and knees. It serves as cushioning between the bone, tendons and muscles around a joint, reducing friction and facilitating free movement.

In the foot, the bursa is found behind the heel between the heel bone and Achilles tendon (retrocalcaneal bursa), and in the forefoot, between the metatarsal heads or balls of the feet (intermetatarsal bursa).

There are several known causes for this painful condition: footwear, foot posture and muscle tightness (tightening of the tendons) may contribute to increased friction over the bursa. When the bursa gets inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis.

The bursa can also be inflamed by excessive pressure, repetitive movement or as a result of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries, and although very rarely, chronic systemic diseases.

As inflammation sets in, the bursa is displaced from its location along the joint cavity. In this event, a person may experience swelling of the affected area, as well as stiffness and an intense burning sensation. The painful sensation can be felt during and after an activity.

Treatments are aimed at reducing the tension and addressing the underlying cause which may include soft tissue and joint mobilization.

Bursitis treatments include the following:

1. custom orthotics

2. footwear changes

3. oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications

4. In cases that don't respond to conservative treatments, a cortisone injection may be required after confirming the diagnosis via ultrasound.

An un-inflamed bursa t can be easily treated with cold compress or ice and elevating the affected portion, sufficient rest, pain medication and Physiotherapy. An infected bursa on the other hand, may require extensive diagnosis and antibiotic therapy, along with other anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medication.

In both the un-inflamed and inflamed cases, compression bandage should be avoided as the friction within the affected area may aggravate the condition.

If the inflammation persist despite treatment, surgical therapy known as a Bursectomy may even be necessary. The procedure involves the excision of the bursa either by endoscopic means or through open surgery. The body can grow back the excised bursa in a span of two weeks. Consult a podiatrist for the method of treatment that can work best for you.


------

For further information regarding this current treatment approach contact Lefort Podiatry Forest
Hill on 9877 2077 or visit our website poditrist melbourne to read more about these new exciting treatment options. A very fine melbourne podiatry clinic.