Bursitis Pain Causes

Bursitis is an inflammation in the joints of the body that can cause a considerable amount of pain. Bursitis pain is caused by overusing the joints or by some type of injury due to the trauma the joint receives. It can also be caused by other medical conditions such as gout, infections and arthritis. In some cases, the cause is never known.

There are more than 150 fluid-filled sacs called bursae located throughout the body. They are designed to cushion the pressure points that are located between the bones, tendons and muscles surrounding the joints. When the bursa sacs become inflamed, it causes joint pain and body parts become difficult to move.

Some of the most common joints where bursitis affects include the following:

• Elbows
• Shoulders
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Knees
• Ankles

Trochanteric bursitis is one of the more common forms of this condition. Trochanteric bursitis features inflammation and lateral hip pain, although the hip joint itself is not involved. Pain may radiate to the thigh.

Bursitis Symptoms

The symptoms of bursitis include pain in the affected joints when they are moved or when pressure is applied. The affected area may feel warm to the touch and appear red and swollen or you may notice a dull aching feeling accompanied by stiffness in your joints.

The pain caused by this medical condition normally will go away after a few weeks but it’s common for the person to suffer from flare-ups later. You can help to reduce your risk of bursitis or flare-ups by following the tips listed below.

• Always use good posture when sitting and standing.
• When you are doing something repetitious, take frequent breaks.
• Take measures to strengthen your muscles through proper exercise and diet.
• Stretch out your muscles before and after any physical activity.
• Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
• Cushion your joints by using pads for your knees and elbows, sit in cushion chairs and wear proper shoes that are in good shape.

Bursitis Treatment

The best treatment for bursitis is resting the affected area and immobilizing the joint. Ice can reduce the swelling and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used to reduce the inflammation and pain. If the condition does not get better with these treatments, then your health care provider may recommend physical therapy and specific exercises to strengthen the muscles. Sometimes, they may recommend corticosteroid injections.

It’s possible for bursitis to be caused by some type of infection, which would require antibiotics to help clear it up. In some cases the bursa sacs may need to be drained and in some extreme cases it may need to be removed. If you think you may be suffering from pain caused by bursitis, then it’s suggested you discuss your symptoms with your physician.