Bursitis

The bursa is a soft sac that protects and cushions tissue in the body, especially the joints. An injury or repeated strain on the joint can cause bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa. If you have tender or painful joints, you could be suffering from bursitis. Our pain physicians at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine offer effective pain relief from bursitis at our clinics in the greater Atlanta metro area.

Causes and Symptoms of Bursitis

Joints have many moving parts that must work together without causing friction. Bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments need to move smoothly, which is why elements like cartilage and bursa are present to provide cushion and protection. The bursa is a sac filled with fluid that protects the bones and other joint elements from friction. There are over 150 different bursae in the body. Some are just under the skin, but many are in joints. When excessive pressure or repeated motion damages the bursa, it can lead to bursitis. Sudden impact, repetitive motion (sports, workplace) or pressure (kneeling) on joints can all cause bursitis.

Bursitis can affect any bursa, but it is most common in joints that are used frequently like in the shoulder, knees, elbows or feet. When the bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause painful symptoms, including:

• Swollen, painful joints
• Difficulty moving a joint
• Redness and tender to the touch
• Stiffness

In mild cases of bursitis, rest, ice and OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications relieve the pain and inflammation in the joint. When more severe inflammation is present, medical care may be required to reduce pain and improve mobility. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we offer treatment plans to reduce inflammation and gain mobility for our patients with bursitis. These treatments include injection therapy, medication management and physical therapy.

If you have symptoms of bursitis and want relief, contact Medici Orthopaedics & Spine today for your consultation. We have locations in the greater Atlanta area, for effective treatment for bursitis and other acute or chronic pain conditions.