### What is Bursitis? Bursitis is a painful condition where the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints become inflamed. This inflammation can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty moving the affected joint. ### Common Causes Bursitis is often caused by repetitive motions or positions that put pressure on the bursae around a joint. Activities like gardening, raking, carpentry, shoveling, painting, scrubbing, playing tennis, golf, skiing, and throwing can increase the risk. It can also be triggered by prolonged sitting or standing in the wrong posture, or not stretching before exercise. Sudden injuries can also lead to bursitis. ### Symptoms - Pain and tenderness in the affected area - Swelling and redness - Limited range of motion - Warmth around the joint ### High-Risk Groups - Adults over 40 - People with arthritis, diabetes, gout, or thyroid disorders - Those who perform repetitive tasks or have poor posture ### Treatment 1. **Rest:** Avoid activities that worsen the pain. 2. **Ice:** Apply ice packs to reduce swelling. 3. **Medication:** Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help. 4. **Physical Therapy:** Exercises to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion. 5. **Protective Gear:** Use pads or braces to protect the affected area. 6. **Medical Treatment:** In severe cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics for infections or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. ### When to See a Doctor - Severe pain or inability to move the joint - Excessive swelling or redness - Fever, rash, or bruising around the joint ### Prevention - Avoid repetitive motions and take breaks - Use proper posture and ergonomic equipment - Stretch before exercise - Wear protective gear if needed Bursitis usually improves with rest and home remedies, but severe cases may require medical attention.