How to Treat Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition that results when a bursa -- fluid-filled sacs positioned around your joints to protect them -- becomes inflamed.

While bursitis in the feet can be provoked by wearing ill-fitting shoes, a bursa often becomes swollen and inflamed as the side effect of a corn, heel spur, or bunion. You may need a doctor's assistance to completely resolve the situation, but these suggestions on how to treat bursitis may help relieve some of your pain.

You can use a simple finger-press test to determine whether you may be suffering from bursitis. (Of course, it's not proof positive; only your doctor can tell for sure if you have bursitis.) If an area of your foot is tender, press down on it. If the skin turns white when you press and then turns red when you release the pressure, you may have bursitis. Warmth is another symptom of inflammation.

To help relieve bursitis discomfort:

  • Soak your feet in warm (not hot) water and Epsom salts once a day for 20 minutes.

  • Apply ice packs for the same amount of time to reduce swelling around the affected joint.

  • Pad the area.

  • Wear well-cushioned shoes that fit your feet properly.

If pain persists, see a doctor, who may take an X ray to determine the cause of your continuing foot pain.

Bone spurs are another painful foot condition, and, in fact, bursitis may be a side effect of this root problem. Learn more on the next page.

To learn more about treating and avoiding problems with your feet, visit:

  • Foot Injuries: Find out how to avoid unpleasant injuries to your feet, or at least reduce pain and prevent infection after they occur, with these simple suggestions.
  • How to Care for Your Feet: Learn how to keep your feet -- and yourself -- healthy and happy with these tips on caring for your feet, including selecting the right shoes.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.