Symptoms of Bursitis

Small fluid-filled sac known as bursa functions by providing a cushion between bones, tendons and muscles around joint areas. These sacs are lined by synovial membrane with an inner capillary layer of slimy fluid with the same consistency with that of an egg yolk. This helps reduce friction between bones. It reduces friction between articular cartilages of synovial joints during movement thus, allowing free movement. It is at the point of contact of the articulating bones that these joints achieve movement. Bursae are typically saclike structures that are located strategically to alleviate friction in some joints such as the shoulders and the knees, which are filled with fluid. In some instances, one or more bursae may be inflamed. This condition is known as bursitis. With this condition, movement becomes extremely difficult and painful. Moving the tendons and muscles over the affected area may aggravate the inflammation.

This condition commonly occurs after doing extremely strenuous repetitive exercises and physical activities involving excessive pressure such as running, cycling, climbing stairs, and standing for long period of time. Trauma can also cause bursitis. A traumatic injury like accident or a fall may result in vasodilation allowing proteins and extra cellular fluids into the affected bursae leading to inflammation. In some cases, bacterial infection may cause bursitis. The most common areas in the body prone to bursitis include the rotator cuff of the shoulders, elbows, buttocks, hips, knees and ankles.  Other health problems may also contribute to bursitis. Examples of these health conditions are arthritis, thyroid problems, as well as diabetes mellitus. Unequal leg length has also been found to cause bursitis since this condition can lead to irritation to the hip bursa when performing activities. Studies have also found that calcium and crystal deposits cause bursitis. Some cases of bursitis are caused by previous history of surgeries like prosthetic implants especially on the hip.

Diagnosing bursitis involves medical history and a thorough physical medical examination. In some cases, x-rays and blood tests may be indicated. Medical history includes the client’s recent or ongoing activities, as well as joint injuries. During physical examination, the clinician palpates by lightly pressing the affected area. During this assessment, localized tenderness and swelling can be observed. Bursitis is suspected when these manifestations are presented with a history of a recent injury which occurred two to three days prior to the onset of pain and discomfort. X-rays are used to rule out other similar health condition such as abnormalities in the bones, arthritis, and calcium deposits. Blood tests are usually needed to confirm other underlying health conditions like gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

Bursitis symptoms vary from local tenderness and joint pain to stiffness, to a burning sensation around the inflamed bursa area surrounding the affected joint. Pain is the most common symptom of this condition. It may appear gradually or may appear sudden and severe. The pain experienced is usually characterized as dull and sometimes sharp. The pain and discomfort usually worsen during and after every activity and commonly worst a day following the activity. Stiffness of the affected area is commonly experienced early in the morning. There is also restricted or limited movement especially around the affected area. Directly over the inflamed bursa, redness and swelling may be observed. In severe cases of bursitis, there may be loss of function of the affected area. It is important to seek medical help when these symptoms are experienced and bursitis is suspected.