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Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflammation of a bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints). Bursae (the plural of bursa) contain lubricating fluid that normally eliminates friction in the area and maintains smooth muscle movement over the bones.Continual stress on a particular joint increases the probability of injury and inflammation. In advanced cases of bursitis, swelling and calcium deposits within a joint may render it immobile.
Causes
The inflammation can result from either sudden extreme pressure or from continual strain. Some occupations and sports that require constant use of certain joints contribute to acute or chronic bursitis. For example, "typist's shoulder" and "tennis elbow" are forms of chronic bursitis. Acute bursitis can develop suddenly and may be triggered by physical stress or injury. Bursitis seems to be more common in men than in women.
Symptoms
Inflamed bursae produce tenderness and swelling near the affected joint. Pain from bursitis can be so severe that movement of the joint becomes impossible. Any joint in the body can be the site of bursitis, but shoulders, knees, and elbows are the most commonly affected areas.
 The knee is a common site of bursitis, which is an inflammation of a bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the juncture of two or more bones). |
To diagnose bursitis, an X-ray examination may be ordered to determine whether there are calcium deposits in the bursa or if other problems, such as a fracture, exist. In the case of stress-related bursitis, however, an X-ray study will show only swelling of the bursa.
Treatment
Acute bursitis may heal with time if the joint is immobilized. Complete bed rest or use of a sling or crutches may be recommended to relieve pressure on the affected area.
Applying moist heat to the area of the inflamed joint frequently reduces the discomfort of bursitis, although some patients find cold compresses more effective. Aspirin and other over-the-counter pain relievers (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) may also help. In some cases, anti-inflammatory corticosteroid drugs may be injected directly into the inflamed area. But, because they have been known to cause serious side effects, corticosteroid drugs must be used judiciously and only under the supervision of a physician.
For severe cases of bursitis, a doctor may recommend surgery by an orthopedic surgeon to remove calcium deposits or free the area from chronic inflammation by removing all or part of the bursa.
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