Bursitis: Treatment, symptoms, advice and help

About bursitis

Bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursa, which is a fluid filled sac located at joint spaces. The bursa is responsible for protecting the bones by preventing increased friction between them. The joints most frequently implicated are elbow, shoulder and hip joints.

Bursitis: Incidence, age and sex

The incidence of bursitis seems to be quite high in general population. It can occur in any age group; however it is more common in middle aged and older adults.

Signs and symptoms of bursitis: Diagnosis

Bursitis can affect several joints like elbow, shoulder, knee, hip and ankle joints. It is characterised by persistent pain and stiffness of the affected joint. The pain may get exacerbated during activity which requires the movement of that joint. Other features include swelling of affected joint and redness of skin overlying the joint. Some individuals also complain of limitation of movement of the affected joint. Generally, a detailed medical history coupled with physical examination is enough to diagnose the condition. No investigations are required to establish the diagnosis.

Causes and prevention of bursitis

Bursitis occurs in response to increase wear and tear or excessive repetitive movement of the joint. This leads to increased friction of bursa which predisposes to its inflammation. Other causes like repeated small injuries to a particular joint or diseases like arthritis and gout may also result in bursitis. Bacterial infections of the joint have also been documented to result in bursitis in occasional cases.

Bursitis: Complications

Bursitis is a self limiting disorder which does not result in any noticeable complications other than limitation of movement of affected joint.

Bursitis: Treatment

The treatment of bursitis include cold compress and analgesics which may help in minimising pain and swelling. Elevation of the limb with the affected joint may also help in reducing swelling. It is advisable to immobilise the joint with sling or a splint to provide adequate rest to the joint. Medications like steroids may be injected into the bursa in occasional individuals to minimise pain and swelling. This is a self limiting condition and usually resolves within a few weeks. It is essential to evaluate the underlying cause of bursitis and manage it to prevent further incidence of bursitis.