Definition:
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa (small fluid-filled pad that act as a cushion among your bones, tendons and muscles near your joints).
Bursitis commonly occurs in the following areas: the shoulders, elbows or hips, knee, heel and the base of your big toe. Bursitis is often is often seen in joints that perform repetitive motion.
Symptoms:
1. Joint achiness or stiffness
2. The joint hurts more when you move it or press on it
3. The joint looks swollen and red
Causes:
Common causes of bursitis are repetitive movements or body movements that irritate the bursa around a joint. These may include:
1. Repeated throwing motions such as in baseball
2. Lifting something over your head repeatedly
3. Leaning on your elbows for long periods of time
4. Extensive kneeling – such as laying carpet or doing housework by scrubbing floors
5. Prolonged sitting, particularly on hard surfaces
Risk factors:
Age: Bursitis is more commonly seen during middle age.
Occupation/Hobbies: Jobs or hobbies, which requires repetitive motion or pressure on the bursa will increase the risk of developing bursitis.
Examples include:
1. Carpet laying
2. Tile setting
3. Gardening
4. Bicycling
5. Baseball
6. Ice skating
The following conditions can increase your risk of developing bursitis:
1. Rheumatoid arthritis
2. Osteoarthritis
3. Gout
4. Thyroid disease
5. Diabetes