Bursitis Treatment Northcote
We peek beneath the surface to look for what’s really behind the pain.
Foot Pain Shouldn't Run Your Day
You shouldn’t have to deal with constant foot pain day in and day out. When every step brings an ache around your toes or heel, or tenderness that lingers after you’ve been on your feet, it could be bursitis.
As your local podiatrist, we take the time to assess your needs, aim to determine the cause of your foot pain, and tailor treatment that may make a difference. Whatever brings you to us, we want to help you keep moving.
Understanding Bursitis Causes
Foot bursitis is a very common cause of foot pain. Anyone can develop it, and it’s usually caused by overusing your muscles through repetitive movements, such as running or jumping.
Poor footwear or other conditions, such as high-arched or flat feet, rheumatoid arthritis, and hammer toes, may also increase your risk of bursitis.
The different types of foot bursitis are:
Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is inflammation of the bursa that sits between your heel bone and the Achilles tendon. It often causes pain and swelling at the back of the heel.
Subcutaneous Calcaneal Bursitis
Subcutaneous calcaneal bursitis affects the bursa at the back of the heel, where footwear tends to rub. This can lead to a tender, swollen area that’s often irritated.
Intermetatarsal Bursitis
Intermetatarsal bursitis is inflammation of a bursa between the metatarsal bones, near the ball of the foot. It commonly causes pain in the forefoot.
Common Symptoms of Bursitis
When repeated pressure is placed on a bursa, the small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between your bones and soft tissues, it can become inflamed.
This inflammation is what causes the irritation and pain of foot bursitis. However, it may also present with other bursitis symptoms, including:
- Heel pain
- Joint pain
- Localised swelling
- Red or warm heel
- Tenderness
- Limited range of motion
Your Bursitis Treatment Options
At the Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre, we take the time to conduct a thorough assessment to help determine a personalised treatment plan for your pain.
Managing bursitis may involve:
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are designed to help alleviate the pressure placed on your feet. This may help bursitis recover faster, reduce pain, and potentially help prevent it from recurring.
Gait Analysis
A gait analysis conducted by one of our podiatrists may help us determine what may be causing your bursitis. We may then offer tailored exercises or stretches to help relieve pain.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy uses targeted acoustic pulses that may stimulate muscles and blood flow, helping to relieve pain and encourage your recovery.
Frequently Asked Foot Bursitis Questions
What footwear is best for foot bursitis?
Footwear may make a real difference. Supportive shoes with a wide toe box help spread the load across the metatarsal heads, while tight and high-heeled shoes tend to increase friction and prolonged pressure that aggravate an inflamed bursa.
How long does foot bursitis take to recover?
Recovery depends on the cause and how long the affected bursa has been irritated. Milder cases may settle within a few weeks once the pressure is eased, while more stubborn ones can take longer.
Does foot bursitis need surgery?
In most cases, no. Bursitis is usually managed with conservative treatment that aims to alleviate pain and support recovery, often through orthotics, footwear changes, and targeted exercises.
Surgery is rarely needed and is generally reserved for severe cases that haven’t responded to other care.
How can I prevent foot bursitis from returning?
Once your symptoms settle, a few habits may help prevent bursitis from coming back. We recommend wearing supportive footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, and easing gradually into activities that involve repetitive motion.
Your podiatrist may also recommend strengthening exercises, especially if your work involves prolonged standing or long periods on your feet.
When should I see a podiatrist for foot bursitis?
If significant pain is disrupting your day, or severe pain isn’t easing with rest, it may be worth seeking a professional diagnosis. For foot bursitis treatment in Northcote, our team may help you get comfortable on your feet again.
The Ankle Foot and Orthotic Centre Difference
Experienced Podiatry Team
Our experienced team uses the latest technology, like ultrasound imaging, that may better support your care.
In-House Orthotics
All of our custom orthotics in Northcote are designed and made in-house, so you may get everything you need in one place.
Community Support
We support people in Northcote and the surrounding areas, welcoming anyone in need of foot health care.
Find Foot Bursitis Treatment in Northcote
If you haven’t had any luck finding care that actually makes a difference, reach out to our team today. With detailed assessments, accurate diagnoses, and tailored care, we aim to help you address your bursitis foot pain and take the next steps on your foot health journey.