Bursitis - Medtick

Bursitis

What is it?

It is inflammation (hot, red and swelling) of the bursae.

  • Bursae are tiny sacs where they help to reduce friction because they contain cells called synovial cells which produce lubrication liquid to reduce friction.
  • Bursae can be found anywhere in the body where friction occurs i.e. on joints where two bones rub together or where muscles and/or tendons develop friction with joints.
  • One has over 160 bursae locations in their body and bursitis can occur here.

Common places include:

  • Ankles
  • Elbow
  • Groin
  • Hip
  • Knees
  • Shoulders
  • Thigh

Diagnosis test

Cause

  • Injury
  • Repetitive movement occupations i.e. builders, electricians, gardeners (using their knees, shoulders)
    Lifting
  • Doing the same sporty activities using the same muscles and joints i.e. Athletes, ball activities, (using their shoulders, knees, hips and ankles)
    Darts players (using their shoulders and elbows)
  • Infection and/or broken skin particular if one has a weak immune system
  • Exostosis (Osteoma)
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Cellulitis
  • Cracked skin (scleroderma)
  • Gout
  • Lupus
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Reactive arthritis
  • Achilles region (back of the foot) caused by Haglund’s deformity (The soft tissue near the back of the heel can become irritated when the large, bony lump rubs against rigid shoes)

Symptoms

  • Aching, painful muscles, muscle cramps/spasms/stiffness?
  • Joint stiffness and pain?
  • Inflamed (hot, red and swollen) joints, tenderness and warmth to the touch?
  • Dull ache pain?
  • Any unknown lumps or swellings on any part of body?
  • Loss of movement?
  • Painful Lumps under the skin?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

This condition can lead to:


Treatment

First few days

  • One can use paracetamol (if suitable), if in pain, talk further to your healthcare professional after this point.
  • Ice: Wrap frozen peas/vegetables packet in a towel and apply for a duration of 15 mins every two to three hours for first 48-72 hrs (2-3 days) or one can use a cold compress (those sensitive to temperature change should not use it) or cold medicinal product (freeze spray or patch) if suitable.
  • If condition is very hot , inflamed and swollen consider Septic bursitis.
  • If condition not healing or longer than two weeks , please see your medical doctor.

This condition may show similar symptoms to:

Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice

Detailed Information

Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Bursitis in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).