Overview
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, one of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons and muscles near joints. It commonly affects the shoulder, elbow, hip or knee and causes pain and swelling, often after repetitive movement or prolonged pressure. Most cases settle with rest and self-care.
Symptoms
- Aching or pain around a joint, worse with movement or pressure
- Swelling and tenderness over the affected area
- Warmth or mild redness over the joint
- Stiffness or reduced movement
- Pain when leaning on or kneeling over the joint
Causes & risk factors
- Repetitive movements or sustained pressure on a joint
- Prolonged kneeling, leaning or overhead activity
- Injury or a direct blow to the area
- Underlying conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis
- Infection of the bursa, in some cases
Treatment & self-care
Care typically involves resting the joint, protecting it from pressure, applying ice and managing pain, with most cases improving over a few weeks. A clinician confirms the diagnosis, checks for infection if the area is hot and red, and may drain fluid or suggest further treatment when needed.
See a doctor urgently if
- The joint is hot, very red and swollen, or you feel feverish — possible infection needing urgent care
- Pain is severe, follows a significant injury, or you cannot use the joint
- Swelling does not improve after a couple of weeks of rest
- Symptoms keep coming back