As we age, our bodies go through many changes. Aches and pains become more common, making it difficult to know when something is wrong. The human body has natural ways of staying healthy and preventing problems. One way it protects itself is through bursae. Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that help prevent tissues in the body, such as bones and muscles, from rubbing together. They are found all over the body. When these sacs leak, rupture or become inflamed, individuals can experience pain and swelling, typically around the joints. This condition is known as bursitis. Bursitis is surprisingly common and many people may not even realize that they are suffering from it, expecting that it’s something else. This article will focus on many of the aspects of bursitis.
Causes of Bursitis
There are several causes of bursitis, but some, such as injury, aging and poor posture, are more common than others. Individuals who believe they are suffering from this illness should see their routine medical doctor.
Injury and Aging - Bursitis usually forms over time. After being injured, joints may be overworked, leading to inflammation and rubbing. If individuals do not seek medical treatment, inflammation can lead to bursitis. Bursitis is common in and around shoulders, hips and knees but can also be found in less common areas such as toes and heels. Older people are usually more at risk than others for contracting bursitis. This is simply because joints have been used repeatedly, causing tissue and bursae to degenerate over time.
- Medical Conditions - Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, gout, rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma, may increase the risk of developing bursitis. This is because bursitis is a common symptom of those illnesses.
- Infection - Bursae can become infected, causing inflammation. People who drink or smoke heavily may be at higher risk for bursae infections. Individuals suffering from HIV or AIDS may also be more susceptible.
- Poor Posture - The most common cause of bursitis is poor posture. This is especially true in the hips. Excessive slumping can be stressful to bursae. Leaning more on one hip than the other when standing and crossing the legs while sitting are other stressful body positions.
Symptoms and Prevention of Bursitis
Swelling and numbness could be signs of bursitis. If the bursae become irritated and do not receive immediate attention, swelling and numbness may occur. Patients may also notice stiffness and pain accompanied by redness and trouble moving the joints.
While preventative measures are not always effective, they can help lessen the chance of developing bursitis. Individuals should always practice good posture. Sit up straight and do not cross the legs. Stand up straight, taking care not to slouch or lean to the side. Avoid sitting for long periods of time. When kneeling or propping against something, always use elbow and knee pads. Avoid repetitive movements as much as possible, taking breaks and switching it up when necessary.
Treating Bursitis
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help ease pain and discomfort. Use ice packs on affected areas and keep the region lifted. Patients should give their joints plenty of rest and may benefit from using a brace or splint. Take a break from activities that are stressful on the joints, and avoid using repetitive motions. Doctors may prescribe medications, such as antibiotics to treat inflammation and infection. Some patients may need physical therapy. Patients with infected bursae may require drainage procedures to release some of the fluid. In extremely rare cases, individuals may need surgery to treat bursitis.