Bursitis

What is bursitis?

• context Inflammation of the bursa is known as bursitis. A bursa is a small sac containing fluid that lies between bones and other body parts such as tendons and muscles. A bursa allows a tendon to move smoothly over a bone by acting as an anti-friction device and shielding tendons and muscles from rubbing against bones. Bursae are found in the foot, knee, hip, elbow, shoulder, buttock, and wrist.

Where are the symptoms?

• context The main symptoms of bursitis are pain and swelling in or around the joint. In some cases, people may experience a limited range of movement and stiffness.

How is bursitis recognized?

• context The diagnosis of bursitis is made by physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis, medical tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or x-rays may be necessary.

What causes bursitis?

• context Common causes of bursitis are repetitive motions, overuse, injury, or infection. Bursitis is also associated with medical conditions such as arthritis, gout, tendonitis, diabetes, and thyroid disease.

How is bursitis treated?

• context Treatment depends on the cause, but rest is typically a treatment option. It is important to avoid or reduce any work activities suspected of causing bursitis. The treatment of bursitis includes anti-inflammatory and pain medication, and corticosteroid injections. Medications may be prescribed if the bursa is infected. Most patients respond to treatment, and they usually go back to work without any restrictions.

What occupations are at risk?

Any occupation that requires repetitive motion or poor posture (prolonged pressure on a bursa) can put workers at risk. Some examples of types of bursitis and occupations at risk include:

• context Elbow (Olecranon) bursitis: occupations that require leaning on or movement of the elbows (e.g., plumbers, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians, athletes, musicians)
• context Hip bursitis: occupations that require overuse (bending, heavy lifting) of the lower extremities (e.g., warehouse labourers, cyclists)
• context Knee bursitis: occupations that require kneeling, jumping, or squatting (e.g., carpet and floor layers, gardeners, carpenters, plumbers, wrestlers, runners)