Achilles tendon bursitis occurs when the bursa, the sacs of fluid that cushion the Achilles tendon and protect it from rubbing against the heel bone or outer skin, become inflamed and irritated. Characterized by pain in the back of the heel, swelling and inflammation, Achilles tendon bursitis can affect the daily life of individuals of all ages.
Reasons
The reasons people seek treatment for Achilles tendon bursitis include a desire to return to athletic activity, to relieve pain or simply to restore normal activity that has been hampered by the bursitis. Since Achilles tendon bursitis may be a symptom of another disorder such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis, someone seeking care for these things may also ask the doctor for advice on treating bursitis.
Goal
The goal of treatment is to restore normal functioning of the Achilles tendon. To achieve this, doctors try to offer treatments that will relieve inflammation and reduce pain. Protecting the area from further injury is a necessary component of treatment. Doctors may also offer advice on how to prevent further occurrences.
Home Treatment
Home treatment of Achilles tendon bursitis can include the application of icy compresses for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day on the first few days of treatment, according to Drugs.com. After two to three days, the application of heat using warm compresses, a heating pad or hot water bottle may help ease stiffness and promote healing. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDS, is used to ease pain while the bursitis heals. Special shoes or devices to place inside shoes may be used to protect the area as it heals on its own. Gentle stretches and exercises to strengthen the area can help treat Achilles tendon bursitis and prevent it from occurring again. Resting the area is an important component of treating bursitis at home.
Medical Treatment
A doctor can treat Achilles tendon bursitis with an in-office procedure that involves injecting corticosteroids and local anesthetics into the inflamed bursa, explains Merck. If home remedies, rest and injections do not heal the damage, surgery can be performed to remove the affected bursa. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the bursitis is the result of a bacterial infection.
Results
For many people, home care plus injections or antibiotic treatment is effective. The area becomes less painful and normal use is restored after weeks or months. After six to 12 months, the condition should be completely cured, and if it is not, it may be considered chronic Achilles tendon bursitis. These types of cases may be referred for surgery or may be considered incurable.
