Bursitis
A bursa is a small fluid filled sac which protects pressure
points between bones, muscles and tendons. They occur naturally
(there are over 150 throughout the body) and help the joints and
tendons to move easily.
However, they can become inflamed resulting in bursitis.
What causes bursitis?
Generally, increased activity or pressure can cause bursitis
although they can also form over prominent joints which have become
deformed due to an increase in pressure / friction (see related
conditions).
Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can also cause
bursitis and bursae can become infected.
What are the common symptoms?
- Pain and stiffness
- Redness around the joint
- Swelling around the joint
- Difficulty in shoes
- Difficulty in walking
- Associated deformity
- Overlying corn, sinus, discharge
How is it recognised?
Clinical examination and a detailed history allow diagnosis.
X-rays help to evaluate the extent of any bony deformity and more
specialised scans can help to identify the extent of bursitis.
What can I do to reduce the pain?
There are several things that you can do to try and relieve your
symptoms:
- Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. nurofen) can help although
should not be taken for long periods without professional
advice
- Hot or cold ice packs can help symptoms
- Rest the foot
- Perform stretching exercises to improve joint motion
- Wear good fitting shoes
- Avoid high heels
- Wear a protective pad
- See a podiatrist
What will a podiatrist do?
If simple measures do not reduce your symptoms, there are other
options:
- Advise appropriate shoes
- Consider prescribing orthotics
- Request appropriate investigations
- Drain the bursa and advise taping / strapping
- Administer a cortisone injection to reduce inflammation if
indicated
- Refer for a medical opinion if indicated
- Advise on surgery
Will this cure the problem?
The conservative treatments may be sufficient to resolve
symptoms and prevent recurrence. However, if the bursitis becomes
chronic surgery may be necessary.
Surgery may involve simply excising the bursa but may also need
to address any related deformity. See related conditions for
treatment.