BURSITIS

 Basic information

description

Bursitis is the inflammation (swelling and pain) of a bursa. A bursa is a soft, fluid-filled sac that serves as a cushion between tendons and bones. There are over 150 bursa in the human body. Areas usually affected are near the shoulders, elbows, knees, pelvis, hips, or heels (Achilles tendons).

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Pain, swelling, tenderness, and limited movement in the affected joint. Pain may spread into nearby areas of the body.
• A feeling of warmth over the affected joint.

causes

Inflammation can be caused by overuse, injury, disease, or infection. Sometimes no cause is found.

risk increases with

• Injury to a joint.
• Overuse of a joint.
• Exercising more than usual.
• Calcium deposits in shoulder tendons.
• Infection.
• Arthritis.
• Gout.
• People who suddenly increase their activity levels ("weekend warriors").
• Not stretching properly or over-stretching.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Avoid injuries when possible. Don't overuse muscles. Wear protective gear for contact sports.
• Warm-up before exercise. Cool-down after exercise.
• Stay physically fit.

expected outcomes

This is a common, but not serious problem. Symptoms usually improve in 7 to 14 days with treatment.

possible complications

• Prolonged healing time if the activity that led to the problem is resumed too soon.
• Chronic bursitis may occur due to repeated injuries or recurrent attacks of bursitis.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Self-care may be all that is needed.
  • Use RICE therapy (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). Rest the affected joint. Use an ice pack to massage the area several times a day. Use compression by wearing an elastic bandage. Elevate the affected joint by resting it on a pillow.
  • You may use heat, in addition to ice, if it feels better. Apply a hot, wet towel or use a heating pad. A deep heating ointment may be helpful.
• See your health care provider if self-care does not help or symptoms are severe. Bursitis can be diagnosed by a physical exam. Medical tests are usually not done.
• Your health care provider may sometimes drain fluid from the joint with a needle. Surgery is rarely needed.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to maintain flexibility, mobility, and strength of the joint.

medications

• Use nonprescription acetaminophen or ibuprofen for mild pain.
• Your health care provider may prescribe:
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or creams.
  • Antibiotics (if the bursa is infected).
  • Prescription pain relievers for severe pain.
  • Injection with a local anesthetic mixed with a corticosteroid drug.

activity

• Rest the affected joint as much as possible. It may help to wear a sling or a brace, or to use crutches until the pain becomes easier to bear. Begin normal, slow joint movement as soon as pain permits.
• Follow directions for any recommended home exercise routines.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of bursitis that is severe or self-care methods do not help.
• New symptoms develop after treatment.

Special Notes: