Bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and lubricate areas where tendons, skin, and muscles glide over bones. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in affected joints, such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee.

In India, bursitis affects a significant number of individuals, often resulting from repetitive motions or minor traumas. Prompt medical attention is advised if you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, or difficulty performing daily activities due to discomfort. Our dedicated team of orthopaedic specialists is committed to diagnosing and treating bursitis effectively, utilising advanced diagnostic techniques and personalised treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and restore function.

Understanding the possible causes of bursitis can help in its prevention and management. Here are some key causes:

1. Repetitive Motion or Overuse: One of the most common causes of bursitis is repetitive motion or overuse of a joint. Activities that involve frequent and repetitive movements, such as running, jumping, or throwing, can irritate the bursae and lead to inflammation. For instance, individuals who engage in sports like tennis, baseball, or swimming are at a higher risk of developing bursitis in the shoulders, elbows, or hips. Similarly, occupations that require repetitive movements, such as painting, gardening, or manual labour, can also contribute to the development of bursitis.

2. Prolonged Pressure: Prolonged pressure on a joint or bursa can cause irritation and inflammation. This is often seen in individuals who spend a lot of time kneeling, leaning on their elbows, or sitting on hard surfaces. For example, carpet layers, plumbers, and gardeners who frequently kneel on hard surfaces may develop bursitis in the knees, known as prepatellar bursitis. Office workers who lean on their elbows for extended periods may experience olecranon bursitis, affecting the bursae at the tip of the elbow.

3. Trauma or Injury: A direct blow or injury to a joint can lead to bursitis. Trauma causes the bursae to become inflamed and swollen, resulting in pain and restricted movement. This type of bursitis can occur from a fall, a sharp impact, or any incident that puts significant stress on the joint. For instance, falling onto the shoulder or elbow can lead to traumatic bursitis in those areas.

4. Infection: Bursitis can sometimes be caused by an infection, known as septic bursitis. This occurs when bacteria enter the bursa through a cut, scrape, or puncture wound, leading to inflammation and infection. Septic bursitis is more common in bursae located close to the skin, such as those in the elbow or knee. Symptoms of septic bursitis may include redness, warmth, and fever, and it requires prompt medical attention and antibiotic treatment.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain underlying medical conditions can predispose individuals to bursitis. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes increase the likelihood of developing bursitis due to chronic inflammation or crystal deposits in the bursae. Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint inflammation, which can extend to the bursae, while gout involves the accumulation of uric acid crystals that can inflame the bursae. Diabetes can lead to impaired healing and increased susceptibility to infections, including septic bursitis.

6. Ageing: As individuals age, the bursae can become less resilient and more prone to inflammation. The wear and tear on joints over the years can contribute to the development of bursitis, especially in weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, and shoulders. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to engage in activities or occupations that put repetitive stress on their joints, increasing the risk of bursitis.

Understanding these causes can help individuals take preventive measures, such as avoiding repetitive motions, using protective padding, maintaining good posture, and seeking prompt medical attention for injuries and infections.

Bursitis manifests through a range of symptoms, primarily centred around inflammation of the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Here are the key symptoms commonly associated with bursitis:

1. Pain: Persistent pain around the affected joint, which may worsen with movement or pressure. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating.

2. Swelling: The affected area may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch. Swelling is often noticeable and may contribute to joint stiffness.

3. Limited Range of Motion: Bursitis can restrict movement in the affected joint, making it difficult to perform everyday activities or participate in physical exercise.

4. Warmth and Redness: Inflammation of the bursae can cause the skin over the affected joint to become warm, red, and occasionally sensitive.

5. Pain at Rest: Pain may persist even when the joint is at rest, particularly in more advanced cases or if left untreated.

6. Difficulty Sleeping: Pain and discomfort from bursitis can interfere with sleep patterns, especially when lying on the affected joint.

7. Grinding Sensation: Some individuals may experience a grinding or snapping sensation when moving the affected joint, known as crepitus.

Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking medical evaluation can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the impact of bursitis on daily life.