A bursa is a fluid filled sac that acts as a cushion and a lubricant between tendons and muscles sliding over bone. There are bursas around most large joints in the body, including the ankle.
The retrocalcaneal bursa is located in the back of the ankle by the heel where the large Achilles tendon (the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel) inserts on the calcaneus or heel bone.
Repetitive or over use of the ankle, for instance by doing excessive waking, running or jumping, can cause this bursa to become irritated and inflamed. This condition is commonly associated with Achilles tendonitis.
Those at risk for this condition include people just starting aggressive exercise regimens or having some other sudden increase in activity without proper conditioning.
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