Our joints have a fluid filled sac called bursa that act as a cushion between bones, tendons, joints, and muscles. The human body has over 150 bursae at various joints of the body. These sacs are responsible for reducing the friction and facilitate movement during walking, moving or running. As a person ages, these sacs become weak and incapable of tolerating the stress put on the joints. As a result, an individual’s joint loses elasticity causing pain and discomfort during movement. It is a painful condition which commonly affect athletes and ageing people. Bursitis commonly occurs at the following areas:
- Hips
- Shoulder
- Elbow
- Knees
- Achilles tendon
Often tendinitis and bursitis are used interchangeably, but both conditions are different. Symptoms of bursitis includes:
- Pain that increases with movement or pressure
- Tenderness, even without movement
- Swelling
- Loss of movement
If bursitis is caused by an infection, it is called septic bursitis. A patient with septic bursitis may have the following additional symptoms:
- Fever
- Redness in the affected area
- The affected area feels hot when touched
Self-care methods for bursitis
Bursitis can be treated at home without seeking a doctor. Some of the self-care techniques that can be performed at home include:
- Use ice to reduce inflammation
Placing ice on the affected area helps in relieving inflammation in areas like the shoulders, knees, elbows or hips.
- Elevate the affected joint
Raising the affected area will stop blood from accumulating and thus help in reducing inflammation and swelling.
- Rest
Bursitis responds well to rest. Make sure you avoid excessive movement of joints whenever possible.
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