Anserine bursitis also occurs as an overuse or traumatic injury among athletes, particularly long-distance runners. Retrocalcaneal bursitis occurs when the bursa near the Achilles tendon in the ankle becomes inflamed. It can also occur with Achilles tendonitis. Bursitis in this part of the body often occurs as an overuse injury in young athletes, ice skaters, and female adolescents transitioning to higher heels. The pain is usually on the back of the heel and increases with passive extension or resisted flexion.
Inflammation can come from sitting for a long time on a hard surface or from bicycling.
The pain occurs when sitting and walking. There will be tenderness over the pubic bone, which may be made worse by bending and extending the leg. The pain may radiate down the back of the thigh. Direct pressure over the area causes sharp pain. The person may hold the painful buttock elevated when sitting.