Common Causes And Risk Factors Of Bursitis

Injury Or Trauma To Joint

Bursitis can be caused by injury or trauma to the affected joint or around the affected joint. Trauma and injury may damage the bursa sac and lead to inflammation, or they may cause an immune response that, in turn, causes inflammation. In around twenty percent of bursitis cases, the underlying cause of the inflammation is an infection. The infection occurs when bacteria or another pathogen enters the joint or surrounding tissue through an abrasion like a cut, scrape, bite, or puncture. Bursitis caused by infection is septic bursitis, which requires prompt medical attention. Untreated, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. Some signs of an underlying infection include redness and warmth around the joint, a fever, and pain severe enough to immobilize the joint.