There are hundred’s of bursa throughout our bodies, the bursa is a sac filled with lubricating fluid, located between tissues such as bone, muscle, tendons, and skin, the function of which is to decrease friction between two surfaces that move in different directions.
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa which in turn losses its gliding capabilities, and becomes more and more irritated with repetitive movement, causing pain and irritation.
Bursitis is the inflammation or irritation of the bursa.
Bursitis is most often caused by repetitive movement, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden injury. As tendons also age, they are less able to tolerate these repetitive stresses, are less elastic, and are easier to damage.
Overuse or injury to the joint at work or sport can also increase a person’s risk of bursitis. Examples of high-risk activities include gardening, painting, tennis, golf, throwing, and pitching. Incorrect posture at work, home and poor technique during sport can also lead to bursitis.
Common Parts of the Body Bursitis Affect?
- Elbow
- Shoulder
- Hip
- Knee
- Achilles tendon
How Is Bursitis Treated?
Bursitis can be treated in a number of ways, including:
- Avoiding activities that aggravate the problem
- Resting the injured area
- Icing the area the day of the injury
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines when required
Physical therapy is another treatment option that is recommended, it is important to identify the cause of the bursitis so as the problem can be addressed and not just the symptoms.
Treatment involves education on correct posture and strengthening techniques, by ensuring the correct muscle balance of joint it will help prevent a bursitis occurring when carrying out repetitive activities in work or sport.