Bursitis
Understanding Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when a bursa becomes inflamed. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac located between tissues such as bones, muscles, tendons, and skin. It acts as a cushion to reduce friction and irritation during movement. When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it leads to the condition known as bursitis.
What Causes Bursitis?
Bursitis is often caused by repetitive, minor impacts on the area or by overuse, especially when muscles are abnormally tight. This can place excessive wear and tear on the bursa. It can also result from a sudden, more serious injury. Age plays a role as well, as tendons tend to become less elastic and more prone to injury as we get older.
Certain activities that involve repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on a specific area can increase your risk of developing bursitis. These activities include:
- Overhead sports or tasks like painting or carpentry
- Gardening or raking
- Shoveling snow or dirt
- Playing tennis, golf, or skiing
- Throwing sports like baseball or softball
Incorrect posture at work or home, along with poor stretching or conditioning before exercise, can also lead to bursitis. Additionally, an abnormal or poorly positioned bone or joint, such as a leg length difference or arthritis, can put added stress on a bursa sac, leading to inflammation.
Who Is at Risk for Bursitis?
Bursitis is more common in adults, particularly those over 40. People engaged in repetitive activities or sports, as well as those with underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or thyroid disorders, are at higher risk. An infection can also occasionally cause bursitis.
Common Areas Affected by Bursitis
Bursitis can occur in various parts of the body, but it is most commonly found in the following areas:
- Shoulder
- Hip (particularly on the outside of the hip, known as trochanteric bursitis, or in the groin, known as psoas bursitis)
- Elbow
- Knee
- Achilles tendon
Symptoms of Bursitis
The primary symptom of bursitis is pain. This pain may develop gradually or come on suddenly and severely. In some cases, severe loss of motion in the affected area, such as the shoulder, can occur, leading to a condition known as adhesive capsulitis or “frozen shoulder.”
Preventing Bursitis
Preventing bursitis involves taking steps to reduce the strain on your joints and muscles. If you’re planning to start a new exercise program, it’s essential to gradually build up your strength and repetitions. Stop any activity if you experience unusual pain and consult a physiotherapist before beginning a new routine. A professional assessment can identify muscle imbalances or malalignments that may contribute to the development of bursitis.
Treating Bursitis
In the acute stage, bursitis can often be managed with rest and ice, along with avoiding activities that aggravate the problem. Gentle, pain-free exercises may also be recommended, depending on the affected area. At PhysioActive, our therapists will work with you to determine the underlying causes of your bursitis and create a personalized treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and prevent recurrence as you return to your activities.
If your condition does not improve with physiotherapy, we may refer you to your doctor for further testing. Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain. However, it is crucial to continue therapy even if you receive an injection, as addressing the root cause of the inflammation is vital to prevent its return.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of bursitis can be managed with rest, therapy, and medication, there are instances where you should seek immediate medical attention. Consult your doctor if you experience:
- A fever over 102°F (infection may be a concern)
- Swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected area
- General illness or pain in multiple sites
- Inability to move the affected area
These symptoms could indicate a more serious problem that requires prompt treatment.
At PhysioActive, we are committed to helping you overcome bursitis and return to your daily activities without pain. Our integrated approach combines physiotherapy with advanced medical care, ensuring you receive comprehensive treatment tailored to your needs.
