Don't let bursitis pain slow you down. Know what to look for and when to seek help from a Union Health Orthopedics provider.
Bursitis is a joint condition caused by inflammation of the bursa. Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that surround the joints. Bursitis may cause painful swelling and stiffness of the joints. Elbow bursitis is sometimes referred to as tennis elbow, but they are not the same condition.
Union Health Orthopedics offers advanced treatment options from board-certified physicians who specialize in joint and orthopedic conditions. Our specialists provide individualized treatment plans to resolve orthopedic symptoms that keep you from living life to the fullest.
Union Health Orthopedics has a dedicated
Joint Replacement Center to specifically treat problem joints. The Center uses advanced treatment technology to provide lasting solutions. An
Ortho Walk-in Clinic offers an alternative to treat joint injuries or unexpected orthopedic pain fast with the same, high-quality care patients expect from our orthopedic team.
If you are experiencing symptoms of bursitis, get effective treatment from the experienced providers at Union Health Orthopedics.
Bursitis in the Body
Bursitis can develop in any joint but occurs most often in joints with frequent, repetitive motions, such as the elbow, hip, and shoulder. As such, it's often considered an overuse injury. Other affected joints may include the big toe, heel, and knee. Bursitis usually affects only one joint at a time.
How Do You Know if You Have Bursitis?
Bursitis can cause septic infections and require immediate medical attention. If your joint symptoms are accompanied by fever, fatigue, skin rash, or an overall feeling of sickness, be sure to see a provider right away. However, symptoms of bursitis vary for every patient. The most common symptoms include:
- Pain in the joint and surrounding tissues, or a joint that is tender to the touch
- Redness of the skin, which can be a sign of bursitis or infection
- Stiffness of the joint that prevents proper bending or straightening
- Swelling of the joint or surrounding tissues when the inflamed bursa fills with excess fluid
The location of the inflamed bursa often determines whether you'll have visible symptoms.
- Subcutaneous bursae are located directly under the skin, so symptoms such as swelling and redness are more visible. Elbow, heel, and knee bursitis fall into this category.
- Bursae under more layers of skin or tissue may have fewer visible symptoms. Subtendinous bursae are located between a bone and joint. Hip bursitis also called trochanteric bursitis, and shoulder bursitis is in this category.
What Causes Bursitis?
The bursa's job is to keep joints lubricated to help you move. Bursae reduce friction between joints, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
A bursa sac has a delicate outer portion called the synovial membrane. The synovial membrane creates a synovial fluid that's contained within the bursa sac. When a bursa is inflamed, the inner lining thickens and often creates too much synovial fluid, which results in pain and swelling.
There are several reasons bursae can become inflamed:
- Overuse and irritation. This includes everyday use of a joint as well as athletic use. Friction between the bursa and surrounding tissues can also lead to inflammation.
- Trauma. Injuries and infections can irritate bursae.
- Underlying medical conditions. These include diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Treating Bursitis
If you experience symptoms of bursitis, your doctor may use one of the following to determine whether it's affecting your joint:
- Bursal aspiration involves removing fluid from the affected joint to determine if an infection is present.
- Physical examinations can help your doctor identify symptoms you might overlook.
- Medical imaging, such as an X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI may be used to locate the affected joint and rule out other conditions.
The good news is bursitis rarely requires surgery. If you have bursitis, your doctor will likely start with the following at-home treatments to help you manage symptoms:
- Ice or cold packs to reduce swelling and redness
- Resting the joint to minimize movement and promote healing
- Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, to reduce pain and swelling
- Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids or antibiotics, to treat pain or infection
Your provider may also recommend lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent bursitis from returning.
- Athletes should stretch before and after every activity and use proper equipment. Physical therapists or athletic trainers may be helpful for improving techniques and preventing further injury.
- Practice good posture and use supportive equipment when sitting for long periods or performing physical labor.
- Take breaks often throughout the day to help reduce stress on your joints.