The joints in our bodies connect bones, provide support, and help us move, and if they are damaged, they can cause discomfort. If you are experiencing joint pain, you are not alone in your suffering. Because of the assortment of conditions that cause it, joint pain is a widespread complaint in the United States.
According to a national survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 30% of adults will have experienced joint pain within the last 30 days. Joint pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injuries, arthritis, or gout, but bursitis is another culprit. Shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees are some of the areas that are most frequently affected by bursitis.
Bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes inflamed. Bursas are small sacs of fluid that act as a cushion for bones and tendons. Although bursitis can be caused by injury, trauma, infection, or other conditions, it is most often the result of overuse by repetitious movements or prolonged pressure on joints. Sports and occupations that require frequent kneeling, throwing, lifting, or grasping can induce bursitis.
Symptoms of Bursitis
The symptoms associated with bursitis can come about quite suddenly and may endure for a few days or longer. Bursitis can cause:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Stiffness
- Aching
- Tenderness
- Pain, especially when pressing on the joint or attempting a full range of motion
Treatment for Bursitis
In many cases, bursitis can be treated with self-care and heal in a relatively short time, but you should seek professional medical treatment if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms in the affected area:
- Immobility
- Shooting or disabling pain
- Fever
- Excessive redness, swelling, bruising, or a rash
Treatment of bursitis focuses on reducing the pain and inflammation and maintaining mobility and includes:
- I.C.E. therapy (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
- Wearing a brace or splint
- Taking anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
- Surgical drainage or removal of the problematic bursa
Preventing Bursitis
Learning how to adapt work habits, discover new ways to do daily activities, or use assistive devices can prevent stress on an area that may be prone to bursitis. You can help prevent bursitis by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on joints
- Making a habit of performing range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility
- Exercising to strengthen muscles and protect joints
- Warming up prior to exercising or performing repetitive movements
- Slowly starting new sports or physical activities to gradually increase the stress placed on joints
- Taking frequent breaks during repetitive tasks
- Positioning yourself correctly for the proper posture throughout physical activities
- Wearing protective gear or cushioning joints when pressure must be applied to them
- Avoiding activities that can cause bursitis
Get Help for Bursitis at AllCare Health & Pain
The good news is that if you receive proper treatment, bursitis won’t cause permanent damage to your joint. If you would like to learn more about how we can relieve your bursitis pain with individualized treatment options, we welcome you to contact AllCare Health & Pain today. Please call us at 201-386-8800 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.