Understand Bursitis - Causes, treatments, and prevention measures
The condition bursitis can be painful and uncomfortable. Bursitis occurs when bursae - small, fluid-filled cushions - that act as buffers for bones, muscles, joints and tendons become inflamed. Inflammation of the bursae can cause pain, particularly during physical activity or movement. Bursitis can affect anyone, but the likelihood of developing it increases with age. Bursitis is more common in people who are physically active or have certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Understand bursitis and its treatments.
What is bursitis?
The inflammation of bursae can cause pain, swelling and difficulties in moving. Bursitis can affect any of the 150 bursae that make up the body. However, it most commonly occurs in the shoulder, hips and elbows. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that about 15 percent of adult sufferers of shoulder pain have experienced bursitis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that one-fourth of adults in the United States have arthritis. This is a leading cause for hip bursitis.
Bursitis: Common causes
Bursitis is caused by:
- Pressure: Repeated, constant pressure can cause inflammation. Leaning your elbows on a long period of time can lead to elbow bursitis.
- Trauma or sudden injury: A joint injury can lead to inflammation in the bursa.
- Repeated motions: Regularly performing the same movement may irritate bursae and cause inflammation. It is common in workers or athletes who do repetitive work.
- Infections In some cases, bursitis is caused by an infection.
- Bursitis can be caused by certain health conditions.
The Common Treatments of Bursitis
Treatment options for bursitis are:
- Rest and immobilization - Resting and immobilizing the area affected and avoiding any activities that worsen the pain will help to reduce the inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the joint affected can relieve pressure on the bursa.
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Injections of steroids can be used to relieve severe inflammation and pain.
- If conservative treatment fails, it may be necessary to perform surgery in order to remove the bursa.
Bursitis: Experts' opinions
Early diagnosis and treatment, according to Dr. Edward Laskowski at Mayo Clinic can help prevent chronic bursitis. In managing the condition, he stresses that rest, exercise and a healthy life style are essential. The American College of Rheumatology also recommends medication and physical therapy as the first line treatments for bursitis, and only suggests surgery when all other options have failed.
Natural Remedies for Bursitis and Prevention Tips
There are many natural treatments and prevention measures to help prevent and manage bursitis. They include:
- Weight loss is important to maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the pressure on joints
- Regular exercise helps to maintain muscle strength and flexibility
- Use proper technique when doing physical activity
- Regular breaks are important for repetitive tasks
- Cold compresses can reduce swelling by applying them to the area.
Bursitis, as a result of inflammation in the bursae, is a very common and painful condition. Bursitis is caused by repeated pressure, injuries, repetitive movements, infection, and other health problems. There are many treatments available, from immobilization and rest to surgical intervention in more severe cases. Experts say that early diagnosis, treatment and a healthy life style can help manage bursitis. In addition to natural remedies, preventive measures and lifestyle changes can also be effective in treating and preventing bursitis.
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