Bursitis
If you love to stay active and play sports, bursitis may be a painful condition you’re familiar with. The term “bursitis” refers to when the bursa, a normal liquid sac around your tissues, becomes inflamed as a result of overuse or injury of the joint. The bursa generally helps reduce friction between muscles, tendons and bones –– so when it is aggravated, the simplest of tasks such as running or walking may be extremely painful.
Bursitis is generally more common in hips, elbows, and shoulders. But can also be found around your knees, heel and the base of your big toe. A prevalent sports injury, it is usually caused by poor posture or not stretching before physical activities, especially in adults who are over the age of 40.
Common Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of bursitis can appear in a few ways. The affected joint may feel tender, achy or stiff; hurt more with movement or pressure; and or look swollen and red.
Typical treatment for bursitis involves resting the affected joint and protecting it from further injury. In most cases, bursitis pain goes away within a few weeks with proper care; however, recurrent flare-ups are common.
While bursitis can’t always be prevented, taking time to warm up prior to exercise or sports, increasing activity gradually, padding joints, resting and stopping activities that cause pain are all ways you can decrease your risk of bursitis.
Dependable Orthopaedic Surgeons
Whether you’re concerned with bursitis, or are in search of other orthopaedic services, schedule an appointment with one of our orthopaedic specialists at one of our seven convenient locations throughout the Triangle.