Bursitis is a condition in which slippery cushions within a joint space, called bursa, become inflamed.
(In medical terminology, the suffix “-itis” refers toinflammation.)
The function of a bursa is to decrease friction between two surfaces as they move in different directions.
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There are over 150 bursae situated throughout the body.
If bursitis develops, the inflamed sac can impair movement and cause localized pain and swelling.
This article will discuss the symptoms and triggers of bursitis, and how to diagnose and treat the condition.
It will also discuss possible lifestyle adjustments for reducing the risk of recurrence.
Bursitis is typically associated with repetitive joint stress.
What Are the Symptoms of Bursitis?
Bursitis commonly affects the superficial bursa of the shoulders, knees, elbow, or hips.
Symptoms can vary in their severity but typically include:
The pain is usually worse during and after activity.
Complications of septic bursitis include osteomyelitis (bone infection), septicemia (blood poisoning), and shock.
What Can Trigger Bursitis?
Bursitis is most often because of a repetitive overuse injury or prolonged pressure applied directly to the bursa itself.
Cellulitis is a potentially life-threatening condition.
Seek immediate care if you develop red, swollen skin that feels hot and tender to the touch.
Red streaks emanating from the site of the infection are a sign of a medical emergency.
The fluid can usually be extracted with a needle and syringe in a procedure known asarthrocentesis.
How Do You Make Bursitis Go Away?
The treatment of bursitis depends largely on the bang out of bursitis you have.
Most cases will resolve with conservative treatment.
Long-term immobilization is avoided as it may cause a joint to freeze.
While most bursitis cases tend to improve within days or weeks, some can take months.
Chronic bursitis is sometimes treated with an intrabursal corticosteroid injection to quickly alleviate inflammation.
If bursitis persists despite appropriate treatment, surgical excision may be required.
Septic bursitis may be treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics depending on the severity of the infection.
Surgical drainage may also be used if pus develops in and around the bursa.
In cases like these, bursitis can flare up after activity or for no reason at all.
Most often, bursitis is because of a repetitive overuse injury or prolonged pressure on a bursa.
Bursitis is often progressive and can worsen over time if left untreated.
The same applies if the condition is triggered by gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
Early diagnosis and treatment can often reduce the frequency or severity of a bursitis flare.
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