What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is condition where the bursa (a sac filled with lubricating fluid) is inflamed or irritated. The bursa is found between tissues such as bone, muscle, tendons, and skin. When it is functioning correctly, it decreases rubbing, friction, and irritation. Bursitis can be experienced as pain (gradual or sudden) in the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee or Achilles tendon. It is more likely to be sudden and severe pain if calcium deposits are present. In the shoulder, it can lead to a loss of motion (adhesive capsulitis). This is also known as “frozen shoulder.”
What Causes Bursitis?
Bursitis can be caused by injury to the area, but generally it is caused by repetitive use or overuse of a joint. The older you are (e.g. over 40 years of age), the more likely you are to suffer from it, because when tendons age, they become more rigid and less elastic and more likely to tear. If you don’t stretch before and after exercise sessions or sports, or if you slip into poor postures, you are more likely to experience it.
Any unusual configuration (e.g. having differences in the length of each of your legs) can add more stress on the physiology and make you more likely to suffer from bursitis. Stress, infections or suffering from other conditions like arthritis, gout or thyroid disorders can also increase your likelihood of suffering from it. Some medications can increase your risk of getting it.
You should consult a doctor if you also have a fever as this could indicate that you also have an infection or if there is swelling, redness, warmth or multiple sites of pain or if you are unable to move the joint.
Disclaimer: The statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.