BURSITIS

Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints, tendons, and muscles.

Types of Bursitis:

1. Prepatellar bursitis (kneecap)

2. Olecranon bursitis (elbow)

3. Trochanteric bursitis (hip)

4. Subacromial bursitis (shoulder)

5. Retrocalcaneal bursitis (ankle)

Causes of Bursitis:

1. Repetitive motion or overuse

2. Direct blows or trauma

3. Infection (septic bursitis)

4. Rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune disorders

5. Gout or pseudogout

6. Poor posture or biomechanics

Symptoms:

1. Pain or tenderness

2. Swelling or inflammation

3. Warmth or redness

4. Limited mobility or stiffness

5. Snapping or crackling sounds (crepitus)

How Bursitis Works:

1. Irritation or injury: Bursa becomes inflamed.

2. Fluid accumulation: Bursa fills with fluid, causing swelling.

3. Inflammation: White blood cells and chemicals respond to injury.

4. Pain and stiffness: Inflammation causes discomfort.

Diagnosis:

1. Medical history

2. Physical examination

3. Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI, ultrasound)

4. Fluid analysis (aspiration)

5. Blood tests (infection or autoimmune disorders)

Treatment Options:

Conservative:

1. Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)

2. Pain management (medication, injections)

3. Physical therapy

4. Stretching and exercises

5. Orthotics or assistive devices

Interventional:

1. Corticosteroid injections

2. Bursa aspiration or drainage

3. Antibiotics (septic bursitis)

Surgical:

1. Bursectomy (bursa removal)

2. Repair of underlying tissue damage

Prevention and Management:

1. Maintain proper posture

2. Exercise regularly

3. Use proper lifting techniques

4. Avoid repetitive motions

5. Wear protective gear (e.g., knee pads)

When to Seek Medical Attention:

1. Severe pain or swelling

2. Difficulty moving or walking

3. Fever or chills

4. Redness or warmth around the affected area

5. Recent trauma or injury

Consult an orthopedic specialist or primary care physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Spine Connection:

Bursitis can occur in the spine, particularly in the:

1. Cervical spine (neck)

2. Thoracic spine (upper back)

3. Lumbar spine (lower back)

Spinal bursitis can cause:

1. Back pain

2. Radiating pain (e.g., sciatica)

3. Limited mobility

4. Muscle spasms

Addressing underlying spinal issues can help alleviate bursitis symptoms.