Bursa are fluid filled sacs found throughout the body, commonly around joints. They act as a cushion between structures and play a role in reducing the friction and helping smooth joint movement. 

What is bursitis?

When bursa become irritated they can become inflamed which may result in pain and tenderness. Some common areas where bursitis can occur include your shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and ankle. 

How do you know if you have bursitis?

You may notice pain, tenderness, which typically becomes worse at night or on movement. You may feel swelling or heat around a joint or notice it looks red. It may be stiff to move that joint and you may feel like you can’t get the same range of motion as you used to. 

Often a history and examination can be used to diagnose bursitis, but bursitis can also be seen on ultrasound.

What causes bursitis?

Injury, overuse and repeated pressure, infection - if there is injury to a joint, can cause bursitis. 

Some conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes and being overweight can increase your risk of developing bursitis. If your work or hobbies involve repetitive actions or pressure on the bursa, you may have an increased risk of developing bursitis. Bursitis becomes more common the older you get. 

How do you treat bursitis?

One of the main focuses when treating bursitis is reducing the irritation and symptoms to allow healing. This often involves identifying the cause which can be from a muscular imbalance or a joint injury. This is where an Osteopath can complete an assessment and may be able to assist in injury recovery and improve the movements around the joint. 

Initially treatment often involves resting the joint from the irritating activities and avoiding activities that cause pain.

Ice can also be used to help with the inflammation. It may be recommended to apply ice for 10-15 minutes multiple times a day especially if the aggravating activity cannot be avoided. 

Treatment may also involve the use of anti inflammatory and pain medications and, when appropriate, exercises and advice to avoid further irritation and injury. 

If bursitis is impacting your life, book an appointment with an Osteopath today. You can book online https://osteo4families.cliniko.com/bookings#service or call 0416 161 411

Footnotes: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/bursitis