What is Bursitis?

By Gauthier Family Home Care | February 5, 2020 | Comments Off on What is Bursitis?

Bursitis is a joint condition that becomes more common as people grow older. That said, it’s quite possible your older family member will experience a case of bursitis at some point in their life. Understanding the condition and its symptoms can help you to identify a possible case in your aging relative and get them the medical care they need.  

 

Bursitis Overview

Bursae are sacs of fluid located in joints throughout the body. They help to cushion bone ends from impact and the movement of the joint. They also protect tendons and muscles near the joint. When these sacs become inflamed, the condition is called bursitis.  

Bursitis most commonly occurs in shoulders, elbows, and hips. However, it can also occur in the knees, base of the big toe, and heel. Joints that are involved in frequent, repetitive movements are most often affected.  

Elderly Care Lowell, MI:What is Bursitis?Bursae are sacs of fluid located in joints throughout the body. They help to cushion bone ends from impact and the movement of the joint. They also protect tendons and muscles near the joint. When these sacs become inflamed, the condition is called bursitis.  Bursitis most commonly occurs in shoulders, elbows, and hips. However, it can also occur in the knees, base of the big toe, and heel. Joints that are involved in frequent, repetitive movements are most often affected.  

Bursitis is painful. Doctors usually recommend rest and protection from further trauma as treatment. The condition usually goes away in a few weeks. However, it’s not uncommon for people to experience recurring cases. 

 

Causes of Bursitis 

Bursitis is most often caused by repetitive motions, like leaning on the elbows for long periods of time, kneeling for a long time, or playing tennis. However, bursitis can also be caused by certain conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection. 

 

Symptoms of Bursitis 

Symptoms of bursitis appear in the affected joint. They typically include: 

  • An achy and stiff feeling. 
  • The joint hurts more when it is moved or pressed on. 
  • Redness and swelling in the joint.  

 

If your older family member experiences any of the following symptoms, they should see a doctor: 

  • Joint pain that is disabling. 
  • Suddenly being unable to move a joint. 
  • The affected joint is especially red or swollen or there is bruising or a rash in the area. 
  • Pain is sharp or shooting, especially during exercise. 
  • Fever. 

 

Some kinds of bursitis can be prevented and elderly care can assist with prevention. One way to prevent bursitis is by maintaining a healthy weight. An elderly care provider can help your older family member to reach a healthy weight and stay there by cooking healthy meals and serving them in proper portion sizes. Elderly care providers can also help the senior to exercise more, which makes muscles stronger and offers more support to the joint. Elderly care providers can go for walks with the older adult, drive them to an exercise class, or monitor them while they exercise at home to ensure they remain safe. 

 

If you or someone you know needs help with Elderly Care in Lowell, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information. 

Sources 

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/arthritis-bursitis 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bursitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353242 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/152120.php 

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