Bursitis what is it

However, people with conditions that affect the immune system may have a higher risk of developing bursitis through an infection. People with certain health conditions are more likely to have crystals form inside the bursa. The crystals irritate the bursa and make it swell.

Conditions that may cause bursitis include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma. A doctor will diagnose bursitis by examining the affected area and asking the person about any recent activities that may be causing joint stress. If the individual has a high temperature, the doctor may take a small fluid sample from a bursa near the affected body part.

They will send the sample to a lab, where technicians will test it for bacteria and, often, for crystal deposits. If treatment is not effective, the doctor may carry out further tests to eliminate the possibility of a more serious condition. Bursitis occurs when a bursa, one of the fluid-filled sacs that protect joints, becomes inflamed. The elbows, knees, hips, and shoulders are the most common sites of bursitis.

A person may experience bursitis if they regularly place pressure on or repetitively move these joints. Most forms of bursitis will resolve with periods of rest. However, some people may require medication or even surgical intervention to remedy the symptoms.

People can help prevent bursitis by protecting vulnerable joints, taking breaks during repetitive tasks, and maintaining a moderate weight. A look at iliopsoas bursitis, a condition that can cause pain in the hip joint. Included is detail on recovery time and exercises for prevention.

Septic bursitis in a superficial bursa can be caused by infectious bacteria that enter through a cut, scrape or rash on the skin. Joints commonly affected by bursitis Bursitis is common in the hip , shoulder , knee and elbow. It can also develop at the back of the back of the ankle and other joints. The hallmark symptom of bursitis is localized swelling at the joint hip bursitis is an exception and may not produce visible swelling.

Distinguishing between aseptic and septic bursitis can be difficult. Septic bursitis requires prompt medical treatment. See Septic Bursitis Treatment. What Is Shoulder Subacromial Bursitis? You are here Types Bursitis. What Is a Bursa? By Marco Funiciello, DO. This will be sent off to test for an infection and conditions, such as gout.

The aspiration may also help your symptoms. It might be done in your GP surgery or you may be referred to the hospital. If your symptoms do not get better, you may also be referred for other tests. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Todd DJ. Bursitis: An overview of clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management. Accessed June 27, Tendonitis and bursitis.

American College of Rheumatology. Hip bursitis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Bursitis and tendonitis. Arthritis Foundation.