BURSITIS

Bursitis is the swelling and irritation of a bursa. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between muscles, tendons, and joints. You may experience symptoms such as joint pain and tenderness when you press around the joint, stiffness and aching when you move the affected joint, swelling, warmth, and/or redness over the joint. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Bursitis is the swelling and irritation of a bursa. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between muscles, tendons, and joints. Bursae reduce rubbing and irritation to facilitate fluid joint movement. Common bursitis areas include the shoulder and elbow. Bursitis is a result of repetitive motions (overuse) or motions/positions that put excess pressure on the bursae. Repetitive motions like lifting, throwing and shoveling can cause shoulder bursitis and leaning on the elbows for long periods of time can cause bursitis of the elbow. The image below depicts bursitis of the elbow, where the bursa is red and inflamed.

Many people can develop bursitis but age, occupation, hobbies and other medical conditions (arthritis, gout, thyroid disease, etc.) can increase the risk. The onset of bursitis can be gradual or sudden and extremely painful. You may experience symptoms such as joint pain and tenderness when you press around the joint, stiffness and aching when you move the affected joint, swelling, warmth, and/or redness over the joint.

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation as well as preventing further disability. Treatment may include rest, heat and cold application and medicine to decrease inflammation and pain. Physical therapy might be recommended to preserve range of motion and strengthen the area. When other treatments are not effective, surgery is an option to drain the inflamed bursa and if necessary, remove it.