Condition
Bursitis
What is it?
A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions the movement of bones, ligaments, and tendons by reducing local friction in the area. When a bursa becomes inflamed, either acutely or chronically, pain results and is diagnosed as bursitis.
The condition is similar to arthritis in some ways, but bursitis affects the connective tissue and bursa whereas arthritis affects the bony parts of a joint.
Bursitis commonly affects the shoulder, elbow, knee, heel, hip, or foot.
Key Points:
- Symptoms include pain, achiness, and stiffness with reduced range of motion
- The area may hurt more when you press on it
- Can look red or swollen
- Commonly caused by repetitive motion or a position that irritates the bursa
- Most commonly occurs in middle age
- Occupation or hobby may predispose due to repetitive motion
- Can coexist with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, thyroid disease, and diabetes
- Imaging may be required to determine the cause of your discomfort
How do we treat it?
While bursitis seems a simple issue, it can actually be more complex than it appears. Reducing inflammation and pain will be a part of your treatment, but we will also help you explore the deeper issues that may have led to development of your bursitis.
There may be a liver component to your discomfort, which can manifest as connective tissue inflammation. Opening the detox pathways of the liver will be part of your treatment plan with us.
On a deeper level, an underlying issue with flexibility may be a part of this condition. If so, as you heal, you will likely find that you become more flexible in other aspects of your life as well as in your joints.
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