Overview
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa at the back of the heel bone. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion and a lubricant between tendons and muscles sliding over bone. Repetitive or over use of the ankle, by doing excessive walking, running, or jumping, can cause this bursa to become irritated and inflamed. Symptoms of bursitis include pain in the heel, especially with walking, running or when the area is touched.
Review Date 7/8/2023
Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.