Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursa, a fluid filled sac that acts as a gliding surface where muscles & tendons slide over the bone to reduce friction. There are three main ways bursitis occurs, injury (such as joint over use), infection (this usually occurs with bursae close to the skin such as kneecaps or elbows) or illness (such as gout). The most common cause of bursitis is injury due to over use of a joint. There are over 150 bursae in the body, any of which can develop bursitis, the most common areas;

• Trochanteric bursitis (hip)
• Olecranon bursitis (elbow)
• Subacromial bursitis (shoulder)
• Prepatellar bursitis/housemaid's knee (kneecap)

Other areas include;

• Anterior Achilles tendon bursitis or Albert's disease (Achilles tendon/heel))
• Posterior Achilles tendon bursitis
• Pes anserine or goosefoot bursitis (knee)

What causes bursitis:

There are many causes of bursitis, over use & repetitive movements are common causes. Others include;

• Infection (known as septic bursitis)
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Gout (gouty bursitis)
• Injury/trauma

Bursitis symptoms?

Symptoms of bursitis include;

• Localised pain
• Inflammation & swelling in the affected area
• Reddening of the skin
• Stiffness

Bursitis treatment?

Aseptic bursitis;

• R.I.C.E therapy. Rest, ice, compression, elevation.
• Heat packs may also be of assistance in  relieving inflammation & discomfort.

• Anti inflammatory medication
• Steroid injections
• Fine needle aspiration if fluid continues to build up in the bursa
• Surgical excision of the bursa (bursectomy) if bursitis persists.

Septic bursitis;

• Fine needle aspiration if fluid continues to build up in the bursa
• Antibiotics to treat septic bursitis.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.