Understanding Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Find Relief

This painful condition has become a common diagnosis, often confirmed through imaging like ultrasound.

Let’s explore what bursitis is, its causes, the latest treatment options—including how an accurate physiotherapy diagnosis can be a game-changer.

What Is Bursitis?

Bursitis occurs when the bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints—becomes inflamed. When irritated, these sacs can swell, leading to pain and restricted movement.

Understanding why a bursa becomes inflamed in the first place is key to managing this condition effectively. A physiotherapist is your best resource for assessing the biomechanics involved and tailoring a treatment plan.

Who Is Affected by Bursitis?

Bursitis is more common than many people realise:

• Prevalence: Around 1 in 10 people will experience bursitis at some point in their lives.
• Age Factor: While it can affect people of all ages, those over 40 are at higher risk due to natural wear and tear on joints.
• Occupational Risks: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive motions—such as gardening, painting, or trades—are significant risk factors.
• Repetitive Sports: Long-distance runners and swimmers often experience bursitis due to the high load nature of their sports.

Common Types and Symptoms of Bursitis

Bursitis can occur in various parts of the body, with the most common being:

• Shoulder Bursitis: Pain, especially when lifting the arm.
• Elbow Bursitis: Swelling on the side of the elbow and forearm.
• Hip Bursitis: Pain in the outer thigh or hip.
• Knee Bursitis: Swelling and discomfort below the kneecap.
• Ankle/Heel Bursitis: Pain at the back of the heel or around the Achilles tendon.

Symptoms typically include localised pain, reduced joint mobility, swelling, stiffness, and warmth around the affected area.

Causes and Risk Factors

The main causes of bursitis include:

• Repetitive Motion: Overuse or repetitive movements can irritate the bursa.
• Trauma: A direct blow to a joint can trigger inflammation.
• Underlying Conditions: Arthritis, gout, or infection can contribute to bursitis.
• Posture and Alignment Issues: Poor posture can place undue stress on joints.

Treatment Options

The good news is that bursitis is treatable.

Options include:

1. Conservative Care

• Physiotherapy: Accurate diagnosis and biomechanical assessment are crucial for effective treatment and reducing the risk of re-injury.
• Relative Rest: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms allows the bursa to heal.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs may help reduce swelling and pain.
• Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, as advised by your GP or pharmacist, may provide temporary relief. However, it’s important to consider potential side effects and seek professional advice.

2. Medical Interventions

• Corticosteroid Injections: These may offer significant pain relief by reducing inflammation but often provide only short-term benefits without addressing underlying biomechanical issues.
• Aspiration: Draining excess fluid from the bursa may be helpful in severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment.
• Surgery: In rare cases, surgical removal of the bursa may be necessary.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Bursitis Management

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage and prevent bursitis.

Here’s how it can help:

Pain Management

Physiotherapists use biomechanical and loading assessments to diagnose bursitis accurately. Treatment may include manual therapy techniques such as trigger point release, dry needling (Western acupuncture), or massage to reduce local tension around the bursa. This is followed by targeted exercises to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Improved Mobility and Strength

A structured exercise program can restore range of motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, and improve joint stability—reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Education and Prevention

A physiotherapist can provide advice on posture, ergonomic adjustments, and movement patterns to help minimise strain on joints.

Tailored Rehabilitation Plans

Every case of bursitis is unique. Physiotherapy offers personalised treatment plans based on the affected joint, severity of the condition, and individual needs.

Preventing Bursitis

Preventative strategies can help reduce the risk of bursitis:

• Maintain Good Posture: Proper alignment minimises unnecessary joint stress.
• Stay Active: Regular low-impact exercise keeps joints flexible and muscles strong.
• Take Breaks: Avoid prolonged repetitive activities; incorporate stretching and rest breaks.
• Use Supportive Gear: Appropriate footwear and padding can help reduce joint strain.

Final Thoughts

Bursitis can be frustrating and painful, but it doesn’t have to be debilitating.

Understanding the causes and treatment options is the first step towards relief.

If you’re struggling with bursitis, a physiotherapist can help you get back to your best.

By addressing the root causes, managing symptoms, and adopting preventative strategies, you can take control of your joint health and enjoy an active, pain-free life.