Bursitis

Content of This Page

1- Introduction

2- Causes

3- Symptoms

4- Types of Disease

5- Treatment

6- What Should You Avoid

Introduction

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones and soft tissues, such as muscles and tendons. Bursitis commonly affects areas like the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.

Olecranon Bursitis

Causes

  • Repetitive Stress or Overuse

    • Impact: Repeated motions or positions, such as those seen in certain sports or occupations, can irritate the bursa.
    • Example: Frequent kneeling or leaning on elbows.

  • Injury or Trauma

    • Impact: Direct injury to a joint or bursa can cause inflammation.
    • Example: A fall or blow to the elbow or shoulder.

  • Infection

    • Impact: Bacterial infections can lead to septic bursitis, where the bursa becomes inflamed due to infection.
    • Example: Skin infections near a joint.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    • Impact: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or pseudogout can lead to bursitis.
    • Example: Gout causing inflammation in the bursa.

  • Postural Issues

    • Impact: Poor posture or awkward positions can contribute to the development of bursitis.
    • Example: Prolonged periods of sitting or standing in one position.

Symptoms

  • Pain: Pain in the affected area, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
  • Swelling: Visible swelling or puffiness around the joint.
  • Tenderness: The affected area may be tender to touch.
  • Stiffness: Reduced range of motion or stiffness in the joint.
  • Redness and Warmth: In cases of infection, the skin over the bursa may be red and warm.

Types of Disease

1. Subacromial Bursitis

  • Location: Under the acromion (the bony part of the shoulder blade) and above the rotator cuff.
  • Impact: Can cause shoulder pain and stiffness, particularly with overhead movements or lifting.
  • Symptoms: Pain and tenderness in the shoulder, limited range of motion, especially when reaching overhead.

2. Olecranon Bursitis

  • Location: Over the tip of the elbow (olecranon bursa).
  • Impact: Often results from trauma or repetitive pressure on the elbow.
  • Symptoms: Swelling and tenderness at the back of the elbow, pain that may worsen with elbow movement or pressure.

3. Prepatellar Bursitis

  • Location: In front of the kneecap (patella).
  • Impact: Commonly known as “housemaid’s knee” due to frequent kneeling.
  • Symptoms: Swelling at the front of the knee, pain when kneeling or bending the knee.

4. Infrapatellar Bursitis

  • Location: Below the kneecap (infrapatellar bursa).
  • Impact: Often associated with activities that put stress on the kneecap.
  • Symptoms: Swelling and pain just below the kneecap, discomfort with kneeling or certain movements.

5. Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis)

  • Location: Over the outer part of the hip (trochanteric bursa).
  • Impact: Can be caused by repetitive stress or inflammation of the bursa near the hip joint.
  • Symptoms: Pain on the outer side of the hip that may radiate down the thigh, discomfort when walking or lying on the affected side.

6. Ischial Bursitis

  • Location: Over the ischial tuberosity (the bony part of the pelvis that you sit on).
  • Impact: Often called “weaver’s bottom” due to prolonged sitting on hard surfaces.
  • Symptoms: Pain in the buttocks or pelvis, exacerbated by sitting or pressure on the bony area.

7. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

  • Location: At the back of the heel, near the Achilles tendon.
  • Impact: Often related to irritation from heel wear or activities involving repetitive stress.
  • Symptoms: Pain and swelling at the back of the heel, particularly during walking or running.

8. Subdeltoid Bursitis

  • Location: Under the deltoid muscle of the shoulder.
  • Impact: Similar to subacromial bursitis, affecting the shoulder joint.
  • Symptoms: Pain and discomfort in the shoulder, which may worsen with certain movements.

9. Gluteal Bursitis

  • Location: In the buttock region, near the hip joint.
  • Impact: Can result from overuse or pressure on the gluteal bursa.
  • Symptoms: Pain in the buttock or hip area, especially when sitting or moving the hip.

Treatment

  • Rest and Activity Modification

    • Impact: Resting the affected joint and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce inflammation.
    • Approach: Modify activities or use ergonomic supports to avoid repetitive stress.

  • Medications

    • NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
    • Corticosteroids: Oral or injected corticosteroids may be used for more severe inflammation.

  • Physical Therapy

    • Impact: Physical therapy can improve strength, flexibility, and posture, reducing stress on the affected bursa.
    • Approach: Specific exercises and stretches tailored to the affected joint.

  • Ice and Heat Therapy

    • Impact: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and numb pain, while heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow.
    • Approach: Use ice packs during the acute phase and heat packs during later stages or for chronic symptoms.

  • Aspiration

    • Impact: Removing fluid from the bursa can relieve pressure and reduce inflammation.
    • Approach: A needle is used to drain the fluid from the bursa.

  • Infection Management

    • Antibiotics: If bursitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.

  • Surgical Intervention

    • Impact: Surgery may be considered for chronic or severe cases that do not respond to other treatments.
    • Approach: Surgical procedures may involve removing the inflamed bursa or repairing damaged tissues.

What Should You Avoid

  • Proper Techniques: Use correct techniques and equipment to avoid repetitive stress injuries.
  • Strengthening and Stretching: Regular exercise to strengthen and stretch muscles around the joints can help prevent bursitis.
  • Ergonomic Adjustments: Make ergonomic adjustments to work and living environments to minimize strain on joints.
  • Protective Gear: Use padding or protective gear when engaging in activities that put stress on joints.
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