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Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Foot & Ankle Bursitis, Muscle Strains & Soft-Tissue Injuries

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Understanding foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries and your options.

Bursae are small fluid-filled cushions that help tissues glide over bone. When one is irritated, it swells and hurts, which is called bursitis. Muscle strains and other soft tissue injuries are overstretched or torn muscle fibers and supporting tissue.

These injuries are common in active people and in those who wear tight shoes. Most respond well when cared for early.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Foot & Ankle Bursitis, Muscle Strains & Soft-Tissue Injuries care

Symptoms

Signs of foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    A tender, puffy spot near a joint or heel

  • 02

    Pain when you press on or move the area

  • 03

    Muscle soreness, tightness, or cramping

  • 04

    Bruising after a sudden pull or twist

Why it happens

What can cause foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries.

  • 01

    Shoes that rub or press on one spot

  • 02

    Repeated activity without enough rest

  • 03

    A sudden stretch or awkward step

  • 04

    Direct bumps or pressure on the area

Care groupAnkle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We find the exact spot of pain and see how it responds to touch and movement. X-rays can rule out a bone problem. Ultrasound or MRI can show a swollen bursa or a torn muscle.

Step 2 · Treatment

Rest, ice, and shoes that avoid the sore area are often the first steps. Padding, taping, or orthotics can reduce pressure and strain. Gentle stretching and physical therapy help muscles recover. An injection can calm a stubborn swollen bursa.

Surgery is rarely needed for these injuries. It may be an option for a bursa that keeps coming back or a large muscle tear.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Many people feel better within two to six weeks. Larger strains or long-standing bursitis can take a few months.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if a swollen spot is hot, red, or getting worse. Also come in if pain keeps you from normal activity for more than a week or two.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Is bursitis the same as an infection?

No, but a swollen bursa can sometimes become infected. Heat, redness, or fever means you should be seen quickly.

Should I stretch a pulled foot muscle right away?

Not at first. Let it rest, then add gentle movement as pain settles.

Get help with foot and ankle bursitis, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Foot & Ankle Bursitis, Muscle Strains & Soft-Tissue Injuries care at 15 clinics.

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