Bursas are fluid-filled sacs that are located at the major joints of the body; most commonly in the hips, shoulder, knees and feet (in between your toes)! The purpose of a bursa is to reduce the friction between bones, skin, tendons and overlying muscles around a joint. They also aid in shock absorption. This way the body is able to function pain-free!
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa which causes pain upon performing normal movements like walking and running. Certain signs and symptoms could include:
- Erythema (redness around the area)
- Swelling
- Warmth in the area
- Pain during / after activity
- Joint pain – especially on movement
- Stiffness at the joint
- Stinging pain at the joint
Some common causes of bursitis include:
- Increased pressure being applied to the area
- Repetitive movements which could cause irritation to the bursa
- Injuries that are caused due to falls
- Ill-fitting footwear (narrow toe-box) which may cause compression of the toes
- Other medical conditions – Rheumatoid arthritis; gout
- Infection of a bursa
Inter-digital bursitis is not as common as other forms of bursitis. However, it is one of the common causes of pain felt at the forefoot amongst other conditions. Inter-digital bursitis does share symptoms and signs with other forefoot conditions – so do come in and see your podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective management plan!
Resource:
http://www.uptodate.com/contents/bursitis-beyond-the-basics
http://www.sportspodiatry.co.uk/intermetbursitis.html
http://www.manhattanfootdoctornyc.com/221389/2011/09/02/what-are-bunions-and-what-causes-them.html
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