When they have joint pain, many people consider having arthritis. But did you also know that another common source of pain is bursitis? Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints. It is time to learn about the various forms of bursitis and how to get the best care if you are feeling swollen, stiff, or uncomfortable in your joints.

What does bursitis mean?

Before we get into the many varieties of bursitis, let’s describe it first. Your joints have tiny sacs filled with fluid called bursae, which lessen friction between the muscles, tendons, skin, and bone. Inflammation of the bursa sacs due to injury, overuse, or infection causes bursitis, a painful ailment

Although anyone can have bursitis, persons over 40, athletes, and anyone who engage in repetitive motions on a daily basis are more likely to get it. Bursitis can impair your range of motion and cause disruptions to your everyday routine if left untreated.

The most common types of bursitis

Knowing the different types of bursitis can help you identify symptoms early and get the appropriate care. The most popular ones are as follows:

• Shoulder Bursitis (Subacromial Bursitis)

Subacromial bursitis, another name for shoulder bursitis, is one of the most common kinds. It happens when the bursa in the shoulder becomes inflamed, frequently as a result of doing repetitive actions overhead. You may have an increased risk if you paint, swim, or lift heavy objects on a regular basis.

Signs &Symptoms

• Discomfort when one raises their arm
• Limited range of motion
• Tenderness or swelling in the shoulder

Treatment:

The majority of shoulder bursitis cases respond well to physical therapy, ice, and rest. For more sophisticated treatment options, it’s imperative to speak with an orthopaedic surgeon if the pain doesn’t go away.

• Trochanteric bursitis, or hip bursitis

The bursa next to the outer hip is impacted by hip bursitis, also known as trochanteric bursitis. Activities like riding, running, and even standing for extended periods of time are frequently the cause of it. This problem is also more common in people who have arthritis or who have had prior hip injuries.

Signs & Symptoms

• Discomfort in the outside region of the hip
• Discomfort when resting on the side that is impacted
• Pain or swelling surrounding the hip joint

Treatment:
Rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and stretching exercises are effective ways to manage hip bursitis. You may consult a doctor and they might  recommend surgery or corticosteroid injections in more severe situations.

• Knee bursitis (Prepatellar Bursitis)

The bursa in front of the kneecap is affected by knee bursitis, sometimes referred to as prepatellar bursitis. Those that spend a lot of time kneeling, such carpenters, plumbers, and gardeners, frequently exhibit it. There is also a risk for athletes who play contact sports.

Signs & Symptoms

Include knee pain and swelling in the front.

Inflexibility or trouble bending the knee

Warmth surrounding the knee joint

Treatment:

Rest and ice are frequently sufficient for mild cases of knee bursitis. The nearby muscles can be strengthened with the aid of physical treatment. For further specialized care, don’t be afraid to see an orthopaedic surgeon if the pain gets worse.

• Bursitis of the elbow (Olecranon Bursitis)

The bursa near the tip of the elbow is affected by elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis. This kind of bursitis is frequently caused by acute trauma to the elbow or by prolonged leaning on hard surfaces.

Signs & Symptoms

• Include redness and swelling behind the elbow.
• Ache when the elbow is bent or extended
• An obvious lump close to the elbow joint

Treatment:
The standard approach to treating elbow bursitis is to avoid pressure on the elbow, rest, and apply ice. If the bursa becomes infected, antibiotics could be necessary in some situations. If the swelling doesn’t go down, an orthopaedic surgeon might advise drainage.

When is it Time to Get Bursitis Help?

Ignoring bursitis can cause it to worsen over time, even though it may just cause temporary discomfort at first. The following are indications that you need to seek professional assistance at a joint care hospital:

• Chronic discomfort that doesn’t go away when you relax
• Redness or swelling that gets worse with time
• Manipulating the afflicted joint with difficulty
• Infection symptoms, like fever or elevated body temperature near the joint

If you are suffering any of these symptoms, you should consult an orthopaedic surgeon for a precise diagnosis and treatment plan.

How may bursitis be identified and managed?

Bursitis is typically identified in a joint care hospital by imaging tests such as MRIs and X-rays in addition to a physical examination. The following could be part of the treatment plan:

• Rest and adjusting one’s activities
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical treatment to fortify the nearby muscles
• Injections of corticosteroids for severe inflammation
• (In rare situations) surgical excision of the irritated bursa

Tips to Avoid Bursitis

Simple adjustments to your daily schedule can help prevent bursitis. Here are some pointers:

• Steer clear of repetitious motions: If you perform repeated motions for a living or as a hobby, take regular breaks to give your ailing joints a break.
• Adopt good posture: To lessen strain on your joints, keep good posture when standing, sitting, or exercising.
• Stretch and warm up: Stretch your joints and muscles before engaging in any physical activity, especially if you’re an athlete or perform manual labor.
• Use padding: To prevent your joints from being overly stressed during activities that require bending over or kneeling, use padding.

Become stronger: Frequent exercise helps develop the muscles that lower the risk of bursitis

In Summary

Although bursitis can be uncomfortable, it is treatable with the correct care. Your joint health can be greatly affected by learning the different types of bursitis and when to consult an orthopaedic physician. Don’t be afraid to seek professional guidance and treatment at Orthomed joint care hospital in Chennai.