The symptoms of bursitis may include:

• localised pain

• swelling

• a warm feeling in or around the affected area

• increased pain at night

• pain that becomes worse on movement

• stiffness

• reddening of the skin in the affected area.

The shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and heel are the most common sites of bursitis.

Injury, repeated pressure and overuse are common causes of bursitis. Some conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and diabetes, can also contribute to its development.

Bursitis can also be caused by an infection. This may occur if a joint is injured and bacteria get into the bursa.

A common cause of bursitis is overuse of a joint, especially if the activity is performed awkwardly or with considerable pressure. Doing the same kinds of movements every day or putting stress on joints increases the risk of developing bursitis.

Examples of work-related activities that may trigger bursitis include production-line packing, laying carpet and typing. Sports that can cause bursitis include jogging, tennis and squash.

Bursitis is generally detected as a tender, warm swelling at the site of a bursa. A diagnosis may include investigating and ruling out any other possible causes.

Tests performed to confirm or rule out bursitis may include:

• physical examination

• medical history

• x-rays, to rule out the possibility of any other condition

• ultrasound

• taking fluid from the bursa to rule out the possibility of infection.

Treatment will depend on the cause of the bursitis, and aims to relieve your symptoms as much as possible while the healing process takes place.

Treatment options may include pain-relieving medications, cold packs, gentle mobilising exercises and rest. Anti-inflammatory medications or injections of corticosteroids may be used in cases of severe pain.

If infection is present, as well as pain and swelling of the affected area, you may develop other symptoms, such as a raised temperature. Treatment with an appropriate antibiotic is necessary.

If the bursitis was triggered by a particular form of overuse, it‘s important to avoid that activity, or modify how you perform that activity. An occupational therapist can help you find solutions to this problem.

Correct posture and joint protection are useful, and braces or splints can decrease the stress on the areas and support good alignment.

Your doctor, physiotherapist and/or occupational therapist can offer suggestions and strategies to reduce your risk of developing bursitis again.

To prevent work-related bursitis:

• use ergonomically-designed furniture and equipment

• take regular breaks

• do simple stretching exercises regularly throughout your day

• keep benches at waist height so that your shoulders can relax.

To prevent sport-related bursitis:

• use ergonomically-designed furniture and equipment

• take regular breaks

• do simple stretching exercises regularly throughout your day

• keep benches at waist height so that your shoulders can relax.
  

• Your doctor

• Physiotherapist

• Occupational therapist

• MOVE muscle, bone & joint health
  National Help Line: 1800 263 265

• Bursitis is caused by the inflammation of a bursa

• Common causes of bursitis include injury and overuse

• Treatment includes rest, ice packs, gentle mobilisation exercises and avoiding the activity that prompted the condition

Need medical information regarding your condition and commonly prescribed treatments? Or assistance navigating the health, disability and social services systems? Contact our nurses on the Help Line on 1800 263 265 or email helpline@move.org.au.

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• Australian Physiotherapy Association

• Exercise and Sports Science Australia

• Arthritis Research UK

• Better Health Channel

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