Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
General Bursitis
1746876470
Bursitis occurs when small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae become inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in a joint. Bursae act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement. This condition can develop in the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee, often due to repetitive motion, injury, or underlying health conditions.
Common causes include: ✔️ Repetitive movements or pressure from activities like throwing, kneeling, or leaning on joints. ✔️ Injury or direct impact, which can trigger inflammation. ✔️ Infections, leading to septic bursitis, which requires antibiotics. ✔️ Chronic conditions such as arthritis, gout, or diabetes, which may increase the risk.
Symptoms often include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam, and in some cases, imaging tests or fluid analysis may be needed to rule out infection.
Most cases can be managed without surgery using: ✔️ Rest and activity modification to avoid further irritation. ✔️ Ice therapy to reduce swelling. ✔️ Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief. ✔️ Physical therapy to restore movement and prevent recurrence. ✔️ Injections, such as corticosteroids, for persistent inflammation.
If an infection is present, antibiotics are necessary, and in rare cases, drainage or surgery may be required.
Taking preventative measures, such as using padding for repetitive activities and warming up before exercise, can help reduce the risk of bursitis. Regenerative medicine options, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or biologic therapies using fat or bone marrow-derived cells, may also reduce inflammation and promote healing.
If you're experiencing persistent joint pain or swelling, early treatment can prevent complications and improve mobility. Talk to our team to find the best treatment plan for you.
FAQs
Can bursitis be prevented?
Yes, bursitis can be prevented by taking measures such as using padding during repetitive tasks, warming up properly before exercise, and avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the joints. These preventive steps can help reduce the risk of developing bursitis.
How is bursitis diagnosed?
Bursitis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination to assess joint tenderness and mobility. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds may be used, and fluid analysis can help rule out infections if suspected.
What are common symptoms of bursitis?
Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. These symptoms often occur in areas like the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee and can affect mobility and daily activities.
What are the treatment options for bursitis?
Most cases of bursitis can be managed with rest, ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or antibiotics may be necessary, especially if infection is present. Surgery or drainage is rarely required.
What is bursitis and how does it occur?
Bursitis is the inflammation of small fluid-filled sacs called bursae, which act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles. This condition often results from repetitive movements, direct injury, infections, or underlying health conditions like arthritis, gout, or diabetes.