Bursitis: Cause, Types & Treatment
Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae (the plural of bursa). Bursae are sacs that contain a jelly-like fluid that acts as a pain reliever by reducing discomfort and friction between soft tissues and bones. Usually acute at first, bursitis develops into a chronic ache over time.
What Causes Bursitis?
Bursitis is mainly caused by repetitive stress on an area or overuse of joints. Gardening, woodworking, cleaning, raking, shoveling, golf, tennis, skiing, and throwing can increase the chances of bursitis. You can also catch bursitis from improper posture when sitting or standing for extended periods at home or work.
Different types of bursitis are caused by different reasons, such as:
What are the Types of Bursitis?
There are various types of bursitis, including:
Posterior Achilles Tendon Bursitis
Posterior Achilles tendon bursitis affects the bursa between the Achilles tendon and the heel’s skin. This bursa connects the muscles of the calf to the heel. A certain walking style aggravates it by pressing the delicate heel tissue up against the rigid shoe’s rear support.
Retromalleolar Tendon Bursitis
This type of bursitis is caused by disease, injury, or shoes with hardback support. This bursitis causes more pressure on the lower end of the Achilles tendon.
Elbow Bursitis
In elbow bursitis, the elbow’s skin and bones become inflamed. It is caused by injuries or persistent pressure on the elbow, such as leaning on a hard surface.
Hip Bursitis
Hip bursitis is mainly caused by trauma, spine deformities, arthritis, or surgery. Hip bursitis is more frequent in middle-aged and older men and women.
Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis is caused by out-turning the knee or lower leg, being overweight, not stretching before exercise, tight hamstring muscles, or arthritis.
How is Bursitis Diagnosed?
The doctor will diagnose bursitis based on your medical history and symptoms and determine if the bursa is enlarged or inflamed. If necessary, they might request more testing, like:
Lab tests: to analyze blood and fluid from the bursa to remove the infection.
X-rays: to know the cause of pain and remove it.
Magnetic resonance imaging: to find out more detailed information about the affected area.
How is Bursitis Treated?
Resting, icing, stretching, taking anti-inflammatory medicines, or using physical therapy can cure bursitis; however, your doctor could advise surgery if the condition worsens or stays persistent (lasting six months to a year). A bursectomy is a common operation in which an inflammatory bursa is removed.
Final Say!
Bursitis is caused by repeatedly performing the same activity, leaning, or applying pressure to your joints, as well as infections or injuries. If you’re concerned about the pain in your joints, you may consult our expert doctors at Rheumatology Care of North Houston. Book your appointment today by calling (832)532-9779.