Summary about Disease
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. This inflammation causes pain and restricts movement. Common locations include the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee.
Symptoms
Pain: Aching, stiffness, or burning pain around the affected joint.
Tenderness: Pain when touched or pressed.
Stiffness: Restricted range of motion.
Swelling: Visible swelling and redness (sometimes).
Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged pressure.
Causes
Repetitive motions: Activities that involve repetitive joint movements (e.g., throwing, lifting, gardening).
Overuse: Excessive use of a joint.
Injury: Direct impact or trauma to the joint.
Infection: Septic bursitis can be caused by bacterial infection.
Underlying conditions: Arthritis, gout, diabetes, thyroid disorders.
Poor posture or improper stretching/warm-up.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can relieve pain but doesn't reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroids: Injections of corticosteroids into the bursa can reduce inflammation quickly. Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed in some cases.
Antibiotics: If the bursitis is caused by an infection (septic bursitis), antibiotics will be prescribed.
Is Communicable
No, bursitis is not communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Avoid repetitive motions: Modify activities to avoid movements that trigger pain.
Use proper lifting techniques: Bend at your knees and keep your back straight when lifting.
Take breaks: During repetitive activities, take frequent breaks to rest your joints.
Maintain good posture: Proper posture can help prevent bursitis, especially in the shoulders and hips.
Stretch and warm up: Before exercise, stretch and warm up your muscles to prepare them for activity.
Use assistive devices: Use carts, dollies, or other devices to reduce strain on your joints when lifting or carrying heavy objects.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra stress on your joints.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a bursitis outbreak can vary. With rest and treatment, mild cases might resolve within a few weeks. More severe cases or those involving chronic inflammation can last for several months. Untreated septic bursitis can become a chronic condition.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will examine the affected joint, checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, activities, and any underlying medical conditions.
Imaging tests:
X-rays: Can rule out other conditions like arthritis or fractures.
MRI: Can help visualize the bursa and surrounding tissues, identifying inflammation or other abnormalities.
Ultrasound: Can also visualize the bursa and guide injections.
Bursa aspiration: Fluid may be drawn from the bursa for analysis to rule out infection (septic bursitis) or gout.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of bursitis symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity.
Initial: Gradual onset of pain and stiffness, often worsening with activity.
Progression: Pain may become more constant and intense, limiting range of motion. Swelling and tenderness may develop.
Chronic: If untreated, pain and stiffness can persist for months, leading to chronic discomfort and functional limitations.
Important Considerations
Rest is crucial: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
Early treatment is essential: Prompt treatment can prevent bursitis from becoming chronic.
Physical therapy: Can help improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, and prevent recurrence.
Underlying conditions: Addressing underlying conditions (e.g., arthritis, gout) is important for managing bursitis.
Infection: Septic bursitis requires immediate medical attention.
Lifestyle modifications: Adjusting activities and ergonomics can help prevent future episodes.