10918 Bursitis
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Bursitis is inflammation (swelling) of a bursa — a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can make movement painful and cause swelling around the joint.
Key facts
- Bursitis usually affects the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and foot.
- It is often caused by repeated movements or pressure on a joint.
- Most cases improve with rest, ice, and gentle movement within a few weeks.
Yes, bursitis is a common condition, especially in people who perform repetitive tasks, kneel for long periods, or play certain sports.
It can affect anyone, but it is more common in adults over 40, people with physically demanding jobs, and those with certain health conditions such as diabetes or gout.
Symptoms
- Sudden, severe joint pain that does not allow any movement
- High fever with a hot, swollen joint (these can be signs of infection)
- Redness spreading beyond the joint, along with chills
- Shortness of breath or dizziness (if a blood clot is suspected, though this is rare)
- ⚠Fever or feeling unwell with joint swelling
- ⚠Severe pain that does not improve with rest
- ⚠Inability to use the joint or put weight on it
- ⚠Swelling or pain that keeps getting worse after a few days
Common symptoms
- Joint pain that may start gradually or suddenly
- Swelling around the joint
- Tenderness when pressing on the area
- Stiffness or limited range of motion in the joint
- Warmth or redness over the joint (sometimes)
- Pain that worsens with movement or when you rest on the joint
Symptoms in children
- Bursitis in children is less common, but it can happen after an injury or from repeated sports activities.
- The symptoms are similar to adults, such as pain and swelling around a joint, but children may not always describe their pain clearly.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may have bursitis related to joint wear and tear or other conditions like arthritis.
- Stiffness and difficulty moving the joint may be the most noticeable signs.
Causes
Main causes
- Repeating the same movement over and over (like lifting, throwing, or sweeping)
- Prolonged pressure on a joint, such as kneeling on hard floors or leaning on your elbows
- A direct injury or blow to the joint
- Infection in the bursa (rare but serious)
- Other conditions that cause joint inflammation, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis
Risk factors
- Jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive joint movement
- Occupations that require kneeling or long periods of leaning on elbows
- Aging (joints become less resilient over time)
- Obesity, which adds extra stress on joints
- Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease
- Previous injury or surgery near a joint
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- See a doctor the same day if you think you might have an infection (fever, hot swelling, spreading redness) or if you suddenly cannot use the joint.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Book a routine appointment if pain lasts more than a week or two, keeps coming back, or interferes with your daily life and sleep.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and activities. They will feel around the joint, ask you to move it gently, and look for tenderness or swelling. This is often enough to diagnose bursitis.
Tests that may be done
- Ultrasound or MRI scan can look at the bursa and confirm the diagnosis.
- Blood tests can check for signs of infection or other conditions.
- Removing a small fluid sample from the bursa (if an infection is suspected) and sending it to a lab.
What to expect at your appointment
The doctor will ask about how your pain started, your daily activities, and any injuries. They may move your joint through a range of motion. Most people leave with a care plan and do not need extensive tests.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and addressing the cause. Most people feel better within a few weeks with rest and self-care, while some need extra help from a healthcare professional.
Self-care at home
- Rest the affected joint and avoid the activity that caused the pain
- Apply a cold pack (a bag of ice wrapped in a towel) for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day
- Keep the joint elevated when possible
- Cushion the joint with pillows or pads when lying down
- Resume gentle movement slowly once the pain starts to settle
Medical treatments
Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relief — talk to your pharmacist about what is safe for you. They may also suggest physical therapy to strengthen the area and improve movement. If there is an infection, you will need antibiotics. In some cases, a doctor may drain fluid from the bursa or give an injection to reduce swelling. Always discuss options with your healthcare provider.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for bursitis. If symptoms continue for many months despite treatment, a doctor might consider removing the affected bursa. This is usually a last resort.
Living with this condition
Plan your day to avoid long periods of pressure on the joint. Use cushions when kneeling, take regular breaks from repetitive tasks, and use larger joints or both arms to lift things. Pay attention to what makes the pain worse and adapt accordingly.
Lifestyle tips
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your joints
- Strengthen the muscles around your joints with gentle exercises
- Use protective knee pads or elbow cushions for work or sports
- Change tasks frequently so you do not overuse one joint
- Wear supportive shoes with good cushioning
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps your body heal. Choose gentle exercises such as swimming, cycling, or walking on soft surfaces. If an activity causes pain, ease off and try something else.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with joint pain can be frustrating, and you might feel worried or low at times. This is understandable. Talk to your doctor if pain is affecting your mood or sleep — they can point you to helpful support.
Prevention
Often yes. Many cases of bursitis can be prevented by avoiding repeated stress on joints, taking regular breaks, using protective padding, and staying physically active to keep muscles strong.
Complications
If left untreated
- An infected bursa can lead to a serious infection in the joint (septic arthritis) if not treated promptly.
- Untreated pain may become chronic, making daily activities harder over time.
- Muscles around the affected joint may weaken from being used less.
Long-term outlook
With appropriate care, most people with bursitis recover fully within a few weeks. Even if it takes longer, the right treatment plan — including self-care, physical therapy, or medical treatment — can bring significant relief. The outlook is good for almost everyone.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.