Do you have persistent foot pain that flares up when you walk, stand, or wear certain shoes? It could be more than general discomfort, it might be bursitis, a painful and often overlooked condition that affects the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) around your joints.

At South Dublin Podiatry, we’re here to help you understand this condition and how it can be managed effectively.

What Is Bursitis?

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small, cushion-like sac that reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause localised pain, swelling, and limited movement. While bursitis can occur in various parts of the body (like the shoulder or hip), it commonly affects the heel or ball of the foot, especially in people who spend a lot of time on their feet or wear ill-fitting footwear.

Common Types of Foot Bursitis

1. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
   
   • Located just behind the heel, near the Achilles tendon
     
   • Often caused by tight shoes, repetitive strain, or conditions like Haglund’s deformity
     
2. Intermetatarsal Bursitis
   
   • Occurs between the metatarsal bones (ball of the foot)
     
   • Can be linked with wearing narrow shoes or having flat feet
     
3. Submetatarsal Bursitis
   
   • Affects the underside of the forefoot
     
   • Frequently mistaken for metatarsalgia

Symptoms to Watch For

• Localised pain or tenderness
  
• Swelling or warmth over the affected area
  
• Pain that worsens with activity or pressure
  
• Stiffness or difficulty wearing certain shoes

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to consult a podiatrist.

What Causes Bursitis?

Foot bursitis can be triggered by:

• Repetitive motion or overuse
  
• Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces
  
• Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes
  
• Abnormal gait or foot mechanics
  
• Trauma or injury to the foot

People with flat feet, high arches, or conditions like arthritis may also be more prone to developing bursitis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

At South Dublin Podiatry, we diagnose bursitis through a combination of clinical examination and patient history. When necessary we may recommend imaging such as ultrasound or X-ray to rule out other causes of foot pain.

Treatment Options May Include:

👣 Footwear advice – Supportive shoes with cushioning to reduce pressure on the bursa
👣 Custom orthotics – To redistribute weight and improve foot biomechanics
👣 Ice and rest – To reduce inflammation and promote healing
👣 Padding or offloading – Reduces direct pressure on the affected area

When to Seek Help

If you’ve been experiencing pain that’s affecting your ability to walk, stand, or go about your daily routine, don’t ignore it. Left untreated, bursitis can become chronic and lead to further complications.

At South Dublin Podiatry, we believe in treating the cause of foot pain, not just the symptoms. If you’re struggling with heel or forefoot pain, bursitis may be the culprit. We’re here to provide expert care, personalised treatment plans, and long-term solutions to keep you moving comfortably.

If you are concerned about your feet, please call us on 01-9012009 or fill out the form below.