Retrocalcaneal Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Best Physiotherapy Treatment at Physio360 Chennai.
- PHYSIO 360
- Aug 31
- 3 min read

INTRODUCTION.
Heel pain can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with walking, exercising, or even standing for long hours. One common cause of heel pain is Retrocalcaneal Bursitis – an inflammation of the bursa located at the back of your heel bone (calcaneus), right where your Achilles tendon inserts. At Physio360 Chennai, our expert physiotherapists specialise in diagnosing and treating this condition with effective, personalised care, ensuring fast recovery and long-lasting relief.
What is Retrocalcaneal Bursitis?
The retrocalcaneal bursa is a small fluid-filled sac situated between the heel bone and the Achilles tendon. Its function is to reduce friction and allow smooth movement during activities like walking, running, or jumping.
When this bursa becomes inflamed, it leads to Retrocalcaneal Bursitis, causing heel pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Common Causes of Retrocalcaneal Bursitis.
Several factors can trigger this painful condition:
Overuse & Repetitive Stress – common in athletes, runners, and dancers.
Improper Footwear – tight shoes or rigid backs pressing against the heel.
Foot Biomechanics – flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns.
Achilles Tendon Problems – tendonitis or degeneration, adding stress on the bursa.
Sudden Increase in Activity – rapid escalation of workout intensity or duration.
Arthritis – Rheumatoid arthritis and gout may also predispose individuals.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore.
If you’re experiencing the following, it may be Retrocalcaneal Bursitis:
Pain and tenderness at the back of the heel.
Swelling and warmth near the Achilles insertion.
Stiffness or discomfort when walking, running, or climbing stairs.
Pain aggravated by wearing tight shoes or pressing on the heel.
Morning heel stiffness that eases slightly with movement.

Diagnosis at Physio360 Centre, Chennai.
At Physio360, our expert physiotherapists assess the root cause through:
Detailed physical examination of the heel and ankle.
Posture and gait analysis to detect biomechanical faults.
If needed, referral for Ultrasound or MRI to rule out Achilles tendon tears.
This ensures an accurate diagnosis before beginning treatment.
Physiotherapy Management at Physio360 Chennai.
The best physiotherapy for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis focuses on pain relief, restoring mobility, correcting biomechanics, and preventing recurrence.
✔️ Step 1: Pain & Inflammation Control
Ice therapy ❄ for swelling.
Ultrasound therapy & interferential therapy for pain relief.
Taping techniques to reduce heel stress.
✔️ Step 2: Stretching & Mobility
Calf and Achilles tendon stretches to reduce tension.
Gentle ankle mobilisation exercises.
Heel raises and eccentric loading techniques.
✔️ Step 3: Strengthening Program
Foot and ankle strengthening exercises 🦶.
Balance and proprioception drills.
Functional strengthening for athletes and dancers.
✔️ Step 4: Footwear & Orthotics
Guidance on proper shoe selection 👟.
Heel pads, orthotics, or custom insoles to reduce pressure.
✔️ Step 5: Return-to-Activity & Prevention
Gradual reintroduction to running, sports, or dance.
Ergonomic and posture corrections.
Home exercise program for long-term heel health.

Why Choose Physio360 for Retrocalcaneal Bursitis in Chennai?
🏥 Expert physiotherapists with specialisation in foot & ankle rehab.
⚡ Fast recovery programs customised to each patient.
🏃♀️ Sports physiotherapy expertise for athletes, runners, and dancers.
💰 Affordable physiotherapy near you with advanced treatment facilities.
✅ Focus on root-cause correction to prevent recurrence.
Many patients searching for “best physiotherapy clinic near me for heel pain” in Chennai have found long-lasting relief at Physio360 Centre, Gerugambakkam.
📞 Take the First Step Towards Pain-Free Heels
If heel pain is slowing you down, don’t ignore it. Early treatment ensures faster recovery and prevents complications like Achilles tendonitis or chronic bursitis.
👉 Book your appointment today with Physio360 – the best physiotherapy clinic in Chennai for heel pain, sports injuries, and rehabilitation.
✨ Walk pain-free, run stronger, and move better with Physio360 Chennai.
REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE.
1.The Achilles tendon and the retrocalcaneal bursahttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5539307/.
2.A prospective observational study on the functional outcome of retrocalcaneal bursitis following arthroscopic managementhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.jajs.2020.12.004
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