The inflammation of the bursa, known as bursitis, causes pain and limits movement in one or several parts of the body, affecting a person’s quality of life.
What is the bursa
The bursa is an anatomical structure that acts as a cushion between the body’s moving tissues. It is made up of a thin membrane that secretes synovial fluid, a viscous fluid that reduces friction and facilitates movement between surfaces.
In the human body, there are more than 150 bursae, which are mainly located in the joints of the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.
Bursae are mainly divided into two types:
- Synovial bursae: located between bones and soft tissues, they help cushion joint movements.
- Subcutaneous bursae: located between the skin and bony protrusions, protecting against pressure and excessive friction.When these sacs are subjected to irritation or repetitive stress, they can become inflamed, which is known as bursitis.
Types of bursitis
Bursitis can be classified into different types depending on its cause, location, and severity:
- Traumatic bursitis: occurs as a result of a direct blow or repetitive microtrauma to a joint. It is common among athletes and individuals whose work involves repetitive movements.
- Infectious or septic bursitis: arises when a bursa becomes infected by bacteria and may occur after a wound or systemic infection; this condition requires immediate medical attention.
- Inflammatory bursitis: associated with systemic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
- Degenerative bursitis: related to aging and the progressive wear of the bursae.
- Chronic bursitis: develops after recurrent episodes of acute bursitis and may cause thickening of the bursa and permanent movement limitation.The most common locations of bursitis include the elbow (known as olecranon bursitis, caused by repetitive leaning or trauma); trochanteric bursitis in the hip, more frequent in women and runners; prepatellar bursitis in the knee; and subacromial bursitis in the shoulder, linked to excessive arm use.
Bursitis treatment
The treatment of bursitis depends on several factors such as the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and location of the condition. Broadly, the therapeutic approach is divided into:
- Initial measures: includes rest, application of ice, compression, and keeping the limb elevated to reduce inflammation.
- Medication: depending on the cause, anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may be required.
- Physical therapy: stretching and strengthening exercises help restore joint function and prevent recurrence; manual therapy or the use of ultrasound and laser may also be beneficial.
- Corticosteroid injections: for severe or persistent cases, they may be administered directly into the bursa to reduce inflammation.
- Drainage: if there is excessive fluid accumulation, drainage can relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
- Surgery: in chronic cases or when conservative treatments have failed, removal of the affected bursa may be necessary.
In addition to all this, it is also important to take preventive and long-term care measures, such as using protective equipment during high-risk activities, maintaining good posture, and taking breaks during repetitive tasks. In cases where there are underlying conditions, such as arthritis or gout, which can trigger bursitis, it is essential to seek proper management and control of these diseases.
Bursitis is a treatable condition, but it can be debilitating and painful if not properly addressed.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Orthopedics and Traumatology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes:
MedlinePlus, MSD Manuals, Cigna
