Understanding Bursitis_ Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatment Methods

1. Understanding Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Modern Treatment Methods Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. What Is Bursitis? 3. Causes of Bursitis 4. Symptoms of Bursitis 5. When Should You See a Doctor? 6. Modern Bursitis Treatment Options 7. Preventing Bursitis Recurrence 8. Lifestyle Adjustments for Recovery 9. Why Physiotherapy Matters in Bursitis Recovery 10. FAQs 11. Conclusion

2. Introduction Bursitis is a common condition that affects many people across different age groups. It occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, become inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, which may limit movement in daily life. With an active lifestyle, repetitive movements, or ageing, bursitis can affect areas like the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee. Fortunately, bursitis is treatable, and with modern physiotherapy and medical approaches, individuals can recover effectively. This article will explain the causes, symptoms, and available bursitis treatment options while focusing on practical methods that help restore mobility and reduce discomfort. What Is Bursitis? The bursae are like small cushions that prevent friction between tissues. When these sacs are irritated or damaged, they fill with excess fluid, leading to inflammation. This is known as bursitis. Common joints affected include: ● Shoulder (subacromial bursitis) ● Elbow (olecranon bursitis) ● Hip (trochanteric bursitis) ● Knee (prepatellar bursitis) ● Heel (retrocalcaneal bursitis) Causes of Bursitis Bursitis develops due to different triggers. Understanding them helps prevent recurrence. 1. Repetitive Movement Continuous motions, such as lifting weights, throwing, or kneeling, increase pressure on bursae. This is common among athletes and manual workers. 2. Sudden Injury A fall or a sharp blow near a joint can inflame the bursa, leading to swelling and tenderness. 3. Ageing As joints weaken with age, the risk of bursitis increases because bursae lose elasticity and resilience.

3. 4. Underlying Medical Conditions Conditions like arthritis, gout, or diabetes make tissues more prone to inflammation. 5. Poor Posture or Muscle Imbalance Incorrect sitting or standing positions, along with weak supporting muscles, strain certain joints, which may inflame bursae. Symptoms of Bursitis Recognising the early signs of bursitis can help with timely bursitis treatment. Common symptoms include: ● Localised pain near the joint ● Swelling that feels soft and tender ● Redness or warmth around the affected area ● Stiffness that worsens with movement ● Difficulty performing regular tasks such as bending or lifting Pain usually intensifies when pressure is applied, such as leaning on an elbow or lying on the affected hip. When Should You See a Doctor? Mild bursitis often improves with rest and home care. However, professional help is necessary if: ● Pain lasts longer than two weeks despite rest ● Swelling becomes severe or spreads ● Fever accompanies joint inflammation (possible infection) ● Movement is restricted significantly ● Daily activities like walking, dressing, or lifting become difficult Modern Bursitis Treatment Options Effective bursitis treatment depends on severity and underlying cause. Both conservative and advanced medical options are available.

4. 1. Rest and Activity Modification Reducing strain on the affected joint gives bursae time to recover. Avoiding repetitive tasks or adjusting posture prevents worsening of symptoms. 2. Ice Therapy Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes reduces swelling and numbs discomfort. This is particularly useful for fresh injuries. 3. Physiotherapy Professional physiotherapy sessions are considered one of the most effective long-term solutions. Clinics such as Go Run Go Physio provide bursitis treatment in Melbourne and guide patients with structured rehabilitation plans. Techniques may include: ● Stretching exercises to restore flexibility ● Strength training to support joints ● Posture correction for long-term prevention ● Ultrasound therapy or dry needling for targeted relief 4. Medications Doctors may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. 5. Injections Corticosteroid injections may be used in severe cases to reduce inflammation quickly. 6. Aspiration If bursae are excessively swollen, a doctor may drain the fluid using a needle. This relieves pressure and allows quicker healing. 7. Surgery (Rare Cases) When other treatments fail, surgical removal of the inflamed bursa may be considered. However, most patients recover without surgery. Preventing Bursitis Recurrence Prevention is as important as treatment. Practical measures include:

5. ● Maintain good posture while sitting and standing ● Use proper technique while lifting or exercising ● Strengthen surrounding muscles with physiotherapy exercises ● Avoid prolonged kneeling or leaning on elbows ● Use protective padding if your work requires repeated pressure on joints ● Keep body weight within a healthy range to reduce joint stress Lifestyle Adjustments for Recovery Small changes in daily habits can support healing and reduce flare-ups: ● Workstation ergonomics: Adjust chair height, keyboard, and desk position to avoid shoulder and elbow strain. ● Supportive footwear: Wear cushioned shoes to reduce hip, knee, and heel stress. ● Regular movement: Avoid sitting or standing in one position for too long. ● Low-impact exercise: Swimming, cycling, and walking help maintain joint health without overloading bursae. Why Physiotherapy Matters in Bursitis Recovery While painkillers and rest provide short-term relief, physiotherapy addresses the root cause. By strengthening weak muscles, correcting alignment, and improving mobility, physiotherapy reduces the chance of recurrence. Clinics such as Go Run Go Physio provide individualised bursitis treatment in Melbourne, helping patients return to daily activities safely and effectively. FAQs Q1: How long does bursitis take to heal? Answer: Mild bursitis may heal within 2–3 weeks with rest and self-care. Chronic cases may take longer, especially if physiotherapy is required. Q2: Is physiotherapy effective for bursitis? Answer: Yes. Physiotherapy not only reduces pain but also improves strength and mobility, preventing bursitis from recurring.

6. Q3: Can bursitis go away without treatment? Answer: Some mild cases improve naturally with rest and ice therapy. However, untreated bursitis may become chronic, so professional guidance is recommended. Q4: What is the fastest bursitis treatment? Answer: Corticosteroid injections provide rapid relief, but physiotherapy ensures long-term results without repeated flare-ups. Q5: Is bursitis linked to arthritis? Answer: Yes. People with arthritis may have a higher risk of bursitis because inflamed joints increase pressure on bursae. Conclusion Bursitis can be painful, but with early diagnosis and the right bursitis treatment, recovery is very possible. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in both managing symptoms and preventing recurrence. Whether you are dealing with shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee bursitis, modern medical and physiotherapy methods offer effective solutions. If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, consulting a healthcare provider or physiotherapist can help you return to a comfortable, active lifestyle. Clinics like Go Run Go Physio offer structured bursitis treatment in Melbourne and can support long-term recovery. Get In Touch Email Id:care@gorungophysio.com.au Mobile No: +61 401 458 166 Address: The Village Dandenong, 77 – 125 Princes Hwy, Dandenong South VIC 3175 Website:www.gorungophysio.com.au