Bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs located near joints throughout the body. These bursae act as cushions, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement between bones, tendons, muscles, and skin. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it swells and causes pain, which can significantly affect joint mobility.
The bursae serve as protective pads that prevent rubbing and wear in areas where tissues might otherwise grind against each other during movement. For example, bursae are found near the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heels. When these sacs become inflamed, the resulting bursitis can cause stiffness, tenderness, and swelling around the affected joint.
The inflammation in bursitis often arises from repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on a joint, such as frequent kneeling, leaning on elbows, or overuse during activities like running or lifting. Injury, infection, or underlying conditions like arthritis can also trigger bursitis. When the bursa swells, it narrows the space around the joint, making movement painful and restricted.
Because bursae help tendons glide smoothly over bones, inflammation disrupts this function. The friction increases, causing more irritation and pain during joint movement. This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, intense sensations, especially when the joint is moved or pressed. For example, in shoulder bursitis, raising the arm or reaching overhead can become difficult and painful. Similarly, bursitis in the knee or hip can make walking, bending, or climbing stairs challenging.
The impact on joint mobility depends on the severity and location of bursitis. Mild cases may cause only slight discomfort and minor stiffness, allowing most normal activities to continue. However, more severe or chronic bursitis can lead to significant pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. This can cause people to avoid using the affected joint, which may lead to muscle weakness and further loss of mobility over time.
In some cases, the inflamed bursa may produce excess fluid, causing visible swelling or a soft lump near the joint. This swelling can physically limit how far the joint can move. Additionally, the pain often causes reflexive muscle guarding, where surrounding muscles tighten to protect the joint, further restricting movement.
Treatment for bursitis typically focuses on reducing inflammation and relieving pain to restore joint function. Resting the joint and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms are crucial first steps. Applying ice can help reduce swelling, while over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may ease pain and inflammation. Physical therapy exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen muscles around the joint, supporting better movement and preventing recurrence.
In some cases, a healthcare provider may inject corticosteroids directly into the bursa to quickly reduce inflammation. If bursitis is caused by infection, antibiotics are necessary. Rarely, if bursitis does not respond to conservative treatments or causes severe mobility problems, surgical removal of the bursa may be considered.
Because bursitis affects the smooth gliding of tendons and muscles over bones, it directly impairs joint mobility by causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The joint may feel weak or unstable, and movements that were once easy become difficult or impossible without discomfort. This can interfere with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, lifting objects, or reaching overhead.
In summary, bursitis is inflammation of the cushioning sacs around joints that leads to pain and swelling. This inflammation disrupts the normal frictionless movement of tendons and muscles, causing stiffness and limiting the joint’s range of motion. The degree to which joint mobility is affected depends on the bursitis severity, the joint involved, and how quickly treatment is started. Managing bursitis effectively involves reducing inflammation, protecting the joint from further irritation, and rehabilitating the surrounding muscles to restore smooth, pain-free movement.