Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae become inflamed. According to InformedHeath.org every year, at least 1 in 10,000 people is affected by bursitis. These sacs act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, reducing friction and facilitating smooth movement. When inflamed, they cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility, significantly affecting daily life.
Types of Bursitis
Bursitis can develop in various parts of the body, with the most common types being:
- Shoulder Bursitis (Subacromial Bursitis): This type occurs in the shoulder and is often associated with repetitive overhead activities or shoulder injuries. Symptoms include pain when lifting the arm, stiffness, and tenderness.
- Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis): Frequently caused by prolonged pressure on the elbow or trauma, this type leads to swelling at the back of the elbow. It is sometimes referred to as “student’s elbow” or “miner’s elbow.”
- Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis): Hip bursitis commonly affects the outer area of the hip and can result from overuse, injury, or incorrect posture. It causes pain on the outer side of the hip, which may radiate down the thigh.
- Knee Bursitis (Prepatellar or Pes Anserine Bursitis): This type can be divided into two main forms:
- Prepatellar Bursitis: Often called “housemaid’s knee,” it develops in the front of the kneecap due to prolonged kneeling.
- Pes Anserine Bursitis: Located on the inner side of the knee, it frequently affects athletes and those with arthritis.
- Heel Bursitis (Retrocalcaneal Bursitis): Typically caused by repetitive stress or ill-fitting footwear, heel bursitis develops at the back of the heel, leading to pain and tenderness.
- Ischial Bursitis (Weaver’s Bottom): This type affects the bursae near the sitting bones and is often due to prolonged sitting on hard surfaces or injury. It causes discomfort in the buttocks.
Causes of Bursitis
Bursitis can arise from several factors, including:
- Repetitive movements: Overuse of a joint from activities like running, gardening, or manual labor.
- Injury: Direct trauma or a fall can irritate the bursae.
- Age: Wear and tear over time increases susceptibility.
- Infections: In rare cases, bacterial infection can inflame the bursae.
- Underlying conditions: Arthritis, gout, or other systemic conditions can contribute to bursitis.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of bursitis include:
- Pain, especially with movement or pressure on the affected joint.
- Swelling and tenderness around the joint.
- Redness and warmth, particularly in cases of infection.
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion.
Treatment Options
Treatment for bursitis aims to reduce pain, minimize inflammation, and restore joint function. These can be devived into methods employing medicine and non-pharmacological ways of treatment for bursitis. The approach depends on the severity and cause of the condition.
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding repetitive activities and providing the affected joint with adequate rest can alleviate symptoms. Using cushions or pads to reduce pressure is also beneficial.
- Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs during the acute phase helps reduce swelling, while heat therapy can ease stiffness and improve blood circulation during recovery.
- Medications:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections may be recommended for severe or persistent cases to reduce inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises guided by a physical therapist improve joint stability and mobility while preventing future flare-ups.
- Assistive Devices: Using braces, splints, or orthotics can provide support and protect the joint during healing.
- Aspiration: In cases of severe swelling, a doctor may drain excess fluid from the bursa using a needle, a procedure known as aspiration.
- Antibiotics: If bursitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics are necessary to address the underlying issue.
- Surgery: Rarely, when conservative treatments fail or if the condition recurs frequently, surgical removal of the affected bursa may be considered.
Preventing Bursitis
To reduce the risk of developing bursitis:
- Practice proper body mechanics during activities.
- Incorporate regular breaks into repetitive tasks.
- Strengthen muscles around joints through exercise.
- Use appropriate protective gear, such as kneepads or elbow pads, during physical labor or sports.
- Maintain a healthy weight to minimize joint stress.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of bursitis improve with self-care, consult a healthcare professional if:
- Symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
- Severe swelling, redness, or warmth occurs.
- Fever develops, as this may indicate an infection.
Bursitis is a manageable condition with proper care and prevention. Understanding its types, symptoms, and treatment options empowers individuals to take proactive steps, ensuring joint health and overall well-being.
