Bursitis Treatment
What is Bursitis?
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones and soft tissues like muscles and tendons. These sacs are found throughout the body, especially around joints that experience frequent movement or pressure, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. When bursae become inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected joint.
What Causes It
Bursitis is often caused by repetitive motion, injury, or prolonged pressure on a joint. Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as running or tennis, can strain the bursae, leading to inflammation. People who perform manual labour or kneel for extended periods are also at higher risk. Other causes include underlying conditions like arthritis, infections, and aging, as the body’s natural wear and tear increases the risk of bursitis.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of bursitis are pain, swelling, and tenderness around the affected joint. Pain may start as a dull ache and intensify with movement or pressure. The area may feel warm to the touch, and redness or swelling may occur. In some cases, stiffness and limited range of motion are present. If the bursitis is caused by an infection, symptoms may be more severe, with fever, redness, and increased warmth.
Treatment
Treatment for bursitis focuses on reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Common initial treatments include rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen. If the condition is severe, physical therapy may help strengthen the muscles around the joint. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation. If an infection is the cause, antibiotics may be prescribed. In rare instances, surgery may be needed to drain or remove the inflamed bursa.
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