Bursitis is a common joint condition that can affect people of all ages. It happens when small fluid-filled sacs, called bursae, which cushion and protect the joints, become irritated or inflamed. The problem most often develops in areas that move frequently, such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD Orthopedics, we provide expert care for joint conditions like bursitis. Serving patients in Hollywood, FL, and surrounding communities, Dr. Kevin McCarthy is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon offering both non-surgical and surgical options. Our goal is to help patients find relief, restore mobility, and prevent flare-ups.
In this article, we’ll share five important facts to help you better understand bursitis, its causes, and how it can be treated.
1. What Bursitis Is and How It Develops
The meaning of bursitis comes from the word “bursa,” which describes small sacs filled with fluid located near joints. These sacs reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles, making movement smoother.
When a bursa becomes irritated, it fills with extra fluid and swells, causing pain. Causes of bursitis include:
Repetitive motion or overuse (such as lifting, painting, or sports).
Long-term pressure on a joint (like kneeling or leaning on elbows).
Direct trauma or injury.
Health conditions like arthritis, gout, or diabetes.
Rarely, infections can cause septic bursitis, which requires urgent care.
Bursitis can affect many joints, but the hip, elbow, shoulder, and knee are most commonly involved.
2. Common Symptoms of Bursitis
Recognizing bursitis symptoms early is important, as prompt care can prevent the condition from becoming more serious. The signs often develop gradually but can vary depending on the joint affected:
Localized pain: A dull ache or sharp discomfort is usually felt near the inflamed joint. The pain often gets worse with movement, pressure, or repetitive activity.
Swelling and warmth: The area around the joint may appear visibly swollen or feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
Redness and tenderness: Skin over the affected bursa can become sensitive, and even light pressure may cause pain.
Stiffness or limited motion: The joint may feel tight or difficult to move, especially after periods of rest.
In some cases, bursitis discomfort may persist even when the joint is at rest. If the pain is severe, spreads, or is accompanied by fever and chills, it may signal an infection requiring urgent medical attention.
3. Risk Factors That Increase the Likelihood of Bursitis
While bursitis can happen to anyone, certain factors make it more likely to develop. Understanding these risks can help you take steps to protect your joints:
Age: Bursitis tends to occur more often in adults over 40 because joints and soft tissues naturally lose flexibility and resilience with time.
Repetitive motions: Occupations or sports that involve repeated joint movements, such as carpentry, painting, tennis, or long-distance running—place constant stress on the bursae, making inflammation more likely.
Posture and ergonomics: Spending long hours at a desk, leaning on elbows, or kneeling without cushioning increases pressure on specific joints and can trigger bursitis.
Underlying health conditions: Medical issues like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and thyroid disease can contribute to joint inflammation and slow healing.
By identifying and managing these risks, patients can reduce the chances of bursitis flare-ups.
4. Why Early Diagnosis Is Important
A timely bursitis diagnosis prevents minor inflammation from progressing into chronic pain. Left untreated, bursitis can limit mobility, reduce productivity, and in rare cases, lead to infection requiring more aggressive treatment.
Doctors typically diagnose bursitis through a physical exam and medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions. If infection is suspected, fluid may be aspirated from the bursa and tested.
5. Treatment Options Available in Hollywood, FL
Most cases of bursitis improve with conservative care. Common treatments include:
Rest and activity modification to avoid irritating movements
Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
Bracing or supportive devices to protect the affected joint
Corticosteroid injections to relieve persistent inflammation
Antibiotics or drainage if infection is present
In rare cases, surgery may be considered to remove a chronically inflamed bursa. At Kevin McCarthy, MD Orthopedics, we personalize treatment to your condition and lifestyle, focusing on long-term relief and prevention.
Find Expert Bursitis Care in Hollywood, FL
Living with bursitis can make even the simplest movements uncomfortable, but you don’t have to manage the pain on your own. With the right diagnosis and treatment, most people return to their normal activities without lasting problems. At Kevin McCarthy, MD Orthopedics, we take a personalized approach to joint care, offering effective options to reduce pain and prevent flare-ups.
If joint pain is holding you back, call (954) 963-3500 or schedule an appointment online today. The right care plan can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS BURSITIS?
It’s inflammation of the bursae, small sacs that cushion joints and reduce friction.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES OF BURSITIS?
Repetitive movements, pressure on joints, injuries, arthritis, gout, diabetes, or infections.
WHAT ARE COMMON BURSITIS SYMPTOMS?
Pain, swelling, tenderness, warmth, stiffness, and sometimes redness or fever.
HOW IS BURSITIS DIAGNOSED?
Through a physical exam, imaging tests, and sometimes fluid testing if infection is suspected.
CAN BURSITIS HEAL ON ITS OWN?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but medical care helps prevent recurrence or complications.
