What is bursitis, and how can I avoid a frequent recurrence of it?

Written in association with: Dr Ziad Farah
Published:
Edited by: Conor Lynch

In this article below, Dr Ziad Farah, an exceptionally experienced consultant rheumatologist, describes in detail what bursitis is, outlines the main associated symptoms, and tells us how we can effectively reduce our chances of suffering from a recurrence of the condition. 

What is bursa, and what can cause it to become inflamed?

All of our tendons and ligaments have a bit of fluid in between them. This fluid is called bursa, which is responsible for lubricating the area where the tendons and ligaments move. Without the bursa, tendons and ligaments moving in the opposite direction would rub against each other. 

 

In other words, bursa keeps the movement of the tendons and ligaments both flexible and smooth. If put under extreme strain, the bursa can become inflamed. This is referred to as bursitis

 

What are the symptoms of bursitis?

The main symptoms are pain and stiffness. It can also cause movement restriction

 

What is the difference between bursitis and arthritis?

In simple terms, bursa is a cushion of fluid between tendons and ligaments, while arthritis centres on the joint itself. Arthritis is more painful, and can affect more joints when compared to bursitis.

 

Bursitis is less painful than arthritis because bursa moves more actively within the joints. Bursitis and arthritis are located in different parts of the body, which is another main difference. 

 

How is bursitis treated?

To begin with, ice can be applied. Rest and simple anti-inflammatory medication can be very helpful. If it is there for more than six weeks, a steroid injection under ultrasound guidance will be recommended. The main way of treating bursitis, however, is physiotherapy

 

Can people suffer from recurrent bursitis?

Yes, it is likely to happen again if the cause of bursitis isn't treated appropriately. In some cases, it might be a simply injury during exercise that can cause mild recurrence.

 

What can I do at home to prevent bursitis from recurring?

It's really important to understand what is causing the bursitis. Warming up appropriately is hugely important. It is also important not to overload the joints very suddenly or quickly when doing rigorous or mild exercise. 

 

To book an appointment with Dr Ziad Farah, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today. 

By Dr Ziad Farah
Rheumatology

Dr Ziad Farah is an esteemed consultant in rheumatology and general internal medicine with over 10 years of experience. Based in London, Dr Farah specialises in inflammatory arthritis, back pain, gout, osteoarthritis, unexplained symptoms and osteoporosis. He is renowned for his excellent patient care and outstanding communication skills

After graduating from Amman Baccalaureate School with an International Baccalaureate (IB), Dr Farah completed his undergraduate degree in the world-famous University College London (UCL) medical school. In 2007, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Physiology, for which he received the Dean’s list award. He finalised his medical degree (MBBS) in 2010, was awarded a distinction and was the runner up for the University of London Gold medal. Dr Farah then continued his medical and rheumatology training at leading institutions in North and West London and earned a post graduate degree in medical education from the Royal College of Physicians and UCL.  

Alongside his role as a consultant at London Northwest University Trust, Dr Farah provides care for inpatients with complex symptoms and leads a team of doctors managing patients attending the Emergency Ambulatory Care unit. Dr Farah's holistic and highly personal approach to his patients earned him a Clinical Excellence Award in 2020 and 2021 for the quality care he provides. 

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