Bursitis

Understanding Bursitis: causes, common locations and treatment 

Bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones, muscles, tendons, and skin. While bursitis can occur in various parts of the body, it most commonly affects the shoulder and hip, but it’s also prevalent in areas like the proximal hamstring and knee. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is key to finding relief and preventing recurrence. 

What causes Bursitis? 

Bursitis often results from repetitive motion, prolonged pressure, or direct trauma to a joint. Other contributing factors include: 

  • Overuse or strain from physical activities. 

  • Poor posture or biomechanics. 

  • Underlying conditions such as arthritis, gout, or infection. 

  • Age-related changes in joint and tissue health. 

Common locations of Bursitis 

1. Shoulder (Subacromial Bursitis) 

The shoulder’s subacromial bursa lies beneath the acromion and above the rotator cuff tendons. Inflammation in this area often leads to pain when lifting the arm, especially overhead. 

  • Causes: Repetitive overhead activities (e.g., swimming, painting), rotator cuff injuries, or impingement syndrome. 

  • Symptoms: Pain on the outside of the shoulder, reduced range of motion, and discomfort when lying on the affected side. 

2. Hip (Trochanteric Bursitis) 

The hip’s trochanteric bursa sits on the outer side of the hip, cushioning the gluteal muscles from the femur. Inflammation here can cause sharp or aching pain that may radiate down the thigh. 

  • Causes: Overuse, tight iliotibial (IT) band, leg-length discrepancies, or falls. 

  • Symptoms: Pain on the outside of the hip, tenderness, and discomfort when walking or lying on the affected side. 

How we approach Bursitis treatment 

At our clinic, we focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing the underlying causes of bursitis. Our personalized approach includes: 

1. Accurate Diagnosis 

A thorough evaluation helps us pinpoint the specific bursa affected and identify contributing factors such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, or repetitive strain. 

2. Targeted Treatment Options 

  • Manual Therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue release improve mobility, reduce tension, and alleviate discomfort. 

  • Advanced Therapies: Innovative treatments like low-level laser therapy and shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and improve tissue health. 

  • Rehabilitation Exercises: Customized exercise plans focus on strengthening surrounding muscles, improving joint stability, and enhancing biomechanics to prevent recurrence. 

  • Lifestyle and Activity Modifications: We provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, and activity adjustments to minimize stress on the affected bursa. 

3. Long-Term Prevention 

Preventing bursitis requires addressing its root causes. We’ll help you identify and correct any contributing factors, such as poor movement patterns, muscle weakness, or improper training techniques.