From the Guidelines
Bursitis symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and limited movement in the affected joint, and initial treatment should focus on nonpharmacological approaches such as physical therapy, heat/cold, and orthotics, as recommended by the American Heart Association 1. The pain typically worsens with movement or pressure on the area, and common sites for bursitis include shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heels. You may notice the area feels warm to the touch, and in some cases, you might develop a fever if infection is present. Some key points to consider when diagnosing bursitis include:
- Radiographs may not always be contributory, and in such cases, MRI or ultrasound of the affected area may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis, with both modalities being equivalent in evaluation, as per the American College of Radiology 1.
- Initial treatment involves rest, ice application for 15-20 minutes several times daily, compression with an elastic bandage, and elevation of the affected area.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (400-800mg three times daily with food) or naproxen (220-440mg twice daily with food) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, worsen significantly, or include fever, seek medical attention as prescription medications, steroid injections, or physical therapy may be necessary. Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints become inflamed due to repetitive motions, direct trauma, infection, or underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
From the Research
Symptoms of Bursitis
The symptoms of bursitis can vary depending on the location and type of bursitis. Some common symptoms include:
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Swelling and inflammation in the affected area
- Limited mobility or stiffness in the affected joint
- Redness and warmth in the affected area Bursitis must be distinguished from other conditions such as arthritis, fracture, tendinitis, and nerve pathology 2.
Types of Bursitis
There are several types of bursitis, including:
- Prepatellar bursitis
- Olecranon bursitis
- Trochanteric bursitis
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis Each type of bursitis has its own set of symptoms and treatment options 2.
Treatment Options
Treatment for bursitis typically involves nonsurgical management, including:
- Ice and activity modification
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Local corticosteroid injection (in some cases)
- Oral antibiotics (in cases of septic bursitis) In some cases, surgical intervention may be required for recalcitrant bursitis 2.