M73.17: Syphilitic bursitis Ankle and foot

You have an inflamed bursa in your ankle or foot.

At their lower end, the two lower leg bones have a bony prominence. These bony prominences on the ankles are called malleolus bones. The ankle joint is between the lower leg and the foot. There is an upper and lower ankle joint. The foot and toes consists of a lot of small bones and joints. At the back is the tarsus, followed by the metatarsus and then the individual phalanges of the feet.

A bursa is a cushion of connective tissue filled with fluid. For example, there is a bursa beneath tendons or between bones and skin. The bursa prevents the tissue from rubbing together. A bursa also enables pressure to be distributed better.

Syphilis has inflamed one or more of your bursas. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease and it is caused by certain bacteria.

There are diseases that are particularly transmitted during sex. These diseases are also called sexually transmitted diseases. They are usually caused by specific pathogens. The pathogens can for instance be transmitted via vaginal fluid or semen. The pathogens may also be transmitted from a sick mother to her new-born child when she gives birth.

An inflamed bursa can be painful. The affected area can swell up and turn red. It may be that the pain makes it harder to move the affected area of your body.