Bursitis

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💢 Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, tendons, joints, and muscles. It commonly occurs in shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heels.

🧠 What is a Bursa?

A bursa acts like a tiny pillow or cushion between bones and soft tissues. There are over 150 bursae in the human body. When irritated or inflamed, the bursa fills with excess fluid, causing pain and restricted movement.

🔍 Common Types of Bursitis

🧨 Causes

• Repetitive motion or pressure (e.g., kneeling, throwing)
• Sudden injury or trauma
• Prolonged pressure on a joint
• Infection (septic bursitis)
• Underlying conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes

⚠️ Symptoms

• Localized pain (especially with movement or pressure)
• Swelling
• Warmth or redness (suggests possible infection)
• Limited range of motion
• Tenderness at the site

🧪 Diagnosis

• Physical examination
• Imaging: X-ray (to rule out bone issues), Ultrasound or MRI (to assess bursa)
• Fluid aspiration (to test for infection or gout crystals)

🛠️ Treatment

🩹 Conservative Management:

• Rest and avoid irritating activity
• Ice packs to reduce swelling
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Compression and elevation
• Physical therapy (gentle stretching and strengthening)

💉 Medical Treatment:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Antibiotics (if septic bursitis)
• Aspiration (removal of excess fluid)

🩺 Surgery (rare):

• Required only in chronic or infected cases that don’t respond to other treatments

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• Avoid repetitive movements or prolonged pressure
• Use protective padding (e.g., knee pads)
• Warm up before physical activity
• Maintain healthy weight and posture
• Strengthen surrounding muscles