Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammatory condition affecting bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, joints, and muscles. When bursae become inflamed, it leads to pain and discomfort; this condition is called bursitis. It commonly occurs in joints that perform frequent repetitive motions, the most frequently affected sites being the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Occasionally, bursitis may also affect the base of the big toe, the heel, and the wrist.

The inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive motions, prolonged pressure from standing or sitting on hard surfaces, joint overuse, direct injury to a joint, inflammatory arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis), or an infection. Symptoms of bursitis include area tenderness, stiffness, pain that worsens with movement or pressure, and sometimes swelling or redness over the joint. Treatment typically involves resting the affected joint, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, a physician may recommend physical therapy or injections to reduce inflammation. If the bursa is infected, antibiotic treatment is necessary. Persistent symptoms might require aspiration of bursal fluid or surgical intervention in rare cases.