What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, muscles, and joints. Bursae help reduce friction during movement. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected joint.
Bursitis commonly affects the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, or heel.
Why Bursitis Matters
Bursitis can make everyday activities such as walking, lifting, reaching, or kneeling painful. With appropriate treatment, most people recover without permanent joint damage.
Common Causes of Bursitis
- Repetitive movements
- Prolonged pressure on a joint
- Acute injury
- Arthritis
- Infection
- Poor posture or body mechanics
- Overuse during sports or work activities
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Warmth around the joint
- Stiffness
- Pain that worsens with movement or pressure
- Reduced range of motion
How Is Bursitis Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose bursitis through a physical examination and medical history. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, along with fluid analysis in certain cases, may be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
How Is Bursitis Treated?
Treatment may include rest, ice, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or antibiotics if the bursa is infected. Surgery is rarely needed unless symptoms are severe or persistent.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist with safe mobility, encourage prescribed exercises, reinforce treatment recommendations, monitor symptoms, and help individuals perform daily activities while reducing strain on the affected joint.
Home Care Tip
Take frequent breaks during repetitive activities and use proper body mechanics to reduce stress on your joints and help prevent bursitis from returning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bursitis
Can bursitis go away on its own?
Many cases improve with rest, activity modification, and conservative treatment, although persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Is bursitis the same as arthritis?
No. Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, while arthritis affects the joint itself. However, arthritis can increase the risk of developing bursitis.
Can home care professionals help someone with bursitis?
Yes. Home care professionals support safe movement, encourage rehabilitation exercises, assist with daily activities, and help individuals manage pain while recovering at home.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if joint pain becomes severe, swelling increases, the joint becomes red or hot, you develop a fever, or symptoms do not improve with treatment.