Bursitis
Bursitis is a joint disorder that occurs when a fluid-filled sac called bursa becomes swollen. Bursa is a pivotal part that acts as a cushion between a bone and a muscle. Generally, bursitis occurs when a particular joint is overused. In addition to that, it may also occur following an injury.
While it can occur in any joints, it is predominantly observed at the knee or elbow. If you tend to kneel down on hard surfaces for prolonged periods, you could be at risk of developing bursitis. The diagnosis of bursitis begins with a physical examination, followed by laboratory tests such as x-rays and MRIs. The doctor might also take a small portion of the fluid from the swollen area to ensure whether the area is infected.
Bursitis can sometimes be treated by taking rest and refraining from repetitive physical activities. If it still persists, then your orthopedic surgeon will inject medication through the swollen bursa. If you observe bursitis even after 6 to 12 months, your doctor will recommend you to have surgery.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Causes of bursitis
Bursitis can occur when you perform repetitive, physical activities that induce immense pressure on the bursa around a joint. Such activities include lifting something over your head repeatedly or leaning on your elbows for a prolonged period. In addition to that, injury or trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection may also cause this condition.
Factors that increase the risk of bursitis
Bursitis is a common joint disorder that occurs due to specific reasons. However, there are certain factors that increase your risk of getting bursitis:
- Age: Bursitis becomes severe as you age.
- Occupation: if you perform repetitive physical activities on a particular bursa, during your work or hobby, then the chances for you to develop bursitis are higher. Playing a musical instrument, painting, gardening, tile setting, or carpet setting are a few activities that could induce the inflammation of bursae.
- Medical conditions: autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint disorders like gout will worsen bursitis. If you have diabetes or any of the aforementioned joint disorders then you are at higher risk of developing bursitis. Being obese or overweight will also increase the chances of developing hip or knee bursitis.
How to prevent bursitis?
- Using kneeling pads: when you need to put pressure on your knees (or any joint), it is recommended to use a cushion or padding.
- Proper posture while lifting: a proper posture will ensure that the pressure is equally distributed instead of a particular bursa. Always bend your knees when you lift.
- Avoid carrying heavy loads: it is best to wheel heavy loads instead of carrying it on your shoulders.
- Taking a break when needed: take rest periodically if you perform repetitive tasks.
- Keep a healthy body: obesity or overweight will induce more stress on your joints. Hence maintain a proper weight.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
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