What Are The Symptoms Of Bursitis?

Bursitis is a pain-causing condition affecting the bursae. A bursa is a small and fluid-filled sac, which are located throughout the body and are responsible for cushioning the muscles, tendons, and bones around the joints. When the bursae become inflamed, this inflammation is called bursitis. Typically, bursitis only occurs in one location with a few bursae, rather than all the bursae becoming inflamed at once. The most typical locations the inflammation occurs are the hip, elbow, and shoulder. That said, bursitis can less commonly occur at the base of an individual's big toe, heel, and by the knee. The condition usually occurs by joints involved in repetitive and frequent motions.

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Swollen Or Red Joints

Bursitis comes with common symptoms associated with inflammation. When the bursae around a joint or multiple joints become inflamed, affected individuals may see their joints become swollen or red. If the affected joint is compared to one on the opposite side of the body, it will be larger and more filled with fluid. The redness may be accompanied by tenderness or may be warm to the touch. Other external symptoms that may occur include a rash or bruising around the affected area. These physical symptoms might be centralized to the joint or may be spread further around the area surrounding said joint. Anti-inflammatory drugs can sometimes help reduce swelling and tenderness.

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Pain Upon Applying Pressure Or Movement

The inflammation associated with bursitis can lead to pain upon applying pressure or movement. If individuals press down on the swollen or achy area, they might experience sharper or shooting pain through their body. Excess pressure may make the inflammation worse. It's also common to experience pain when they move the affected joint. With shoulder bursitis, moving the shoulders can cause pain, especially if patients reach overhead or behind themselves. Hip bursitis may lead to pain when patients walk, run, exercise, or otherwise move their hips. Pain tends to worsen after patients exert themselves or engage in tough physical labor. With elbow bursitis, it may be difficult to bend or straighten the arm fully.

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