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Bursitis

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs (bursa) near joints
  • Causes pain, swelling, and tenderness
  • Most common in shoulders, hips, elbows, or knees
  • Often treatable at home with rest and ice
  • Symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks

Overview

Bursitis occurs when the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles around your joints, become inflamed. This inflammation leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected joint, making movement difficult. While bursitis can affect any joint, it is most frequently found in the shoulder, hip, elbow, or knee. The condition often develops from repetitive motions, prolonged pressure on a joint, or injury. It can also be caused by infection or other medical conditions. Most cases of bursitis can be managed effectively at home with simple measures like rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are signs of infection, medical attention may be needed for further treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Dull, achy pain in the joint
  • Tenderness or warmth over the affected area
  • Joint swelling
  • Increased pain with movement or pressure
  • Redness of the skin (may be less visible on darker skin tones)

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Repetitive movements or overuse of a joint
  • Prolonged pressure on a joint (e.g., kneeling)
  • Joint injury or trauma
  • Being overweight
  • Infection

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination of the affected joint
  • Fluid aspiration (taking a sample of fluid from the bursa)
  • Blood tests to check for infection or other conditions
  • Imaging scans like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI

Treatment & Management

  • Resting the affected joint
  • Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
  • Taking over-the-counter painkillers (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen)
  • Antibiotics for infection-related bursitis
  • Steroid injections to reduce inflammation (not for infected bursa)
  • Fluid aspiration to relieve pressure and symptoms
  • Rarely, surgical drainage or removal of the bursa

Prevention

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Clean any cuts on joints to prevent infection
  • Warm up properly before exercise or sport
  • Use padding when putting pressure on joints (e.g., kneeling)
  • Take regular breaks during repetitive activities
  • Avoid knocking or banging your joints

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Bursitis:

Bursitis Treatment

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View treatment

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Bursitis:

Bursectomy

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View surgery

Contents

Quick Info

Affects

Joints, especially shoulders, hips, knees

Prevalence

Common

Diagnosis

Physical exam, fluid aspiration

Treatment

Rest, ice, painkillers, sometimes injections

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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