Bursitis: The Cause Behind Inflammation In Knees, Ankles, and More

Do you have recurring pain in your joints—especially in areas like the knees, elbows, or hips? You might be experiencing bursitis. This common condition occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (called bursae) that cushion your joints become inflamed, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. While bursitis is not life-threatening, untreated cases can lead to prolonged discomfort and mobility issues. Knowing the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you manage or even prevent bursitis from affecting your quality of life.

What Is Bursitis?

Bursae are tiny sacs filled with fluid that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues like tendons and muscles. When one of these sacs becomes irritated or inflamed, it causes a condition known as bursitis. Bursitis can affect many parts of the body, including:

• Knees (prepatellar bursitis)
• Elbows (olecranon bursitis)
• Shoulders
• Hips
• Heels (retrocalcaneal bursitis)

Common Symptoms of Bursitis

Early symptoms often include:

• Joint pain and tenderness, especially when pressure is applied
• Stiffness or limited mobility
• Swelling and redness in the affected area
• Pain that worsens with movement or repetitive use

If left untreated, bursitis may progress, and more serious symptoms can develop, such as:

• Fever or chills
• Inability to move the joint
• Visible bruising or rash over the joint

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak with a Primary Care Provider at BASS Medical Group to evaluate the cause and determine a treatment plan.

What Causes Bursitis?

The most common causes of bursitis include:

• Repetitive movements (e.g., kneeling, throwing, or lifting)
• Direct injury or trauma to a joint
• Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout
• Infection of the bursae (septic bursitis)
• Age-related wear and tear

Bursitis is more likely to occur in individuals over 40 and those in physically demanding jobs or sports.

How to Prevent Bursitis

Preventative tips include:

• Stretching before activity or exercise
• Using knee pads or cushions if kneeling on hard surfaces
• Alternating repetitive tasks to avoid overuse
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint strain
• Practicing proper technique during sports or physical labor

If you lead an active lifestyle or work in a job that strains your joints, consider consulting with one of our Orthopedic Specialists to keep your joints protected and healthy.

Treatment Options for Bursitis

Most bursitis cases improve with conservative treatment. These may include:

1. Rest and Immobilization

Avoiding movement and using braces or splints can reduce inflammation and prevent further damage.

2. Ice Therapy

Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times a day can relieve swelling and pain.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen help manage pain and reduce swelling.

4. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help restore joint mobility and strength, reducing the chance of recurrence.

5. Corticosteroid Injections

For severe cases, your doctor may inject corticosteroids directly into the affected area to reduce inflammation quickly.

6. Surgery (Rare Cases)

If bursitis doesn’t respond to other treatments or becomes chronic, surgical removal of the bursa may be recommended.

When to See a Doctor
If you experience swelling, warmth, or limited movement in a joint that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter remedies, contact BASS Medical Group. Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications.

Get Relief with BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, our experienced team of Primary Care Physicians, Orthopedic Surgeons, and Physical Therapists work together to provide comprehensive bursitis care. Whether you’re an athlete, office worker, or just starting to notice joint pain, we can help you recover and prevent future flare-ups.

Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier joints and a pain-free life.