Bursitis
Inflammation of the joint cushions
What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. When irritated, bursae become painful and swollen. Common locations include the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee.1
Common Types
- Trochanteric bursitis - Outer hip
- Subacromial bursitis - Shoulder
- Olecranon bursitis - Elbow ("student's elbow")
- Prepatellar bursitis - Front of knee ("housemaid's knee")
- Pes anserine bursitis - Inner knee
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Heel
Symptoms2
- Localized pain
- Tenderness to touch
- Swelling (visible in superficial bursae)
- Stiffness
- Pain with movement
- Redness, warmth (if infected)
Causes
- Repetitive motion or overuse
- Prolonged pressure (kneeling, leaning on elbows)
- Direct trauma
- Infection (septic bursitis)
- Arthritis conditions
- Gout
Treatment3
Conservative
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice application
- NSAIDs
- Padding/protection
- Physical therapy
Medical
- Corticosteroid injection
- Aspiration (if swollen)
- Antibiotics (if infected)
- Surgery (rare, for chronic cases)
Prevention
- Use cushioning when kneeling
- Take breaks from repetitive activities
- Strengthen supporting muscles
- Maintain healthy weight
References
- Khodaee M. Common superficial bursitis. Am Fam Physician. 2017;95(4):224-231.
- Sayegh ET, Strauch RJ. Treatment of olecranon bursitis: a systematic review. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2014;134(11):1517-1536.
- Williams CH, Sternard BT. Bursitis. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2023.