What Is Bursitis?

Have you been diagnosed with a type of bursitis and you want to find out more about it? In this blog we answer the question “What is Bursitis?”.

Bursitis is a commonly used term to explain pain at any joint in the body, and occurs when a bursa is inflamed or irritated.

Keep reading as we explain more about it, share common causes, how long it typically lasts and reveal how physiotherapy can help with your treatment.

Shoulder Bursitis, along with Knee Bursitis (Baker’s Cyst) and Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis) are all frequent injuries seen by the qualified therapists at RRP Physiotherapy.

Fortunately, nearly all clients suffering from bursitis have excellent outcomes with the correct treatment strategies.

What is Bursitis?

We have approximately 150 bursae across our body’s joints (yes – they’re normal!).

Bursae are small, 5-cent-sized balloons or sacs which are filled with fluid and sit between bone and muscle/tendon.

In normal function, bursae allow the moving parts in your joint to glide smoothly on each other, without causing irritation.

Bursitis is the irritation and or inflammation of a bursa.

When the bursae swells, it increases friction and consequently causes pain and discomfort.

Causes of Bursitis

Bursitis can be caused by a number of issues. The most common are:

• Repetitive Use/Overuse,
• Performing unaccustomed physical activity,
• Poor movement patterns (muscle imbalances, weaknesses, tightness etc.), and
• Direct trauma.

How Long Does Bursitis Last?

As bursitis is an inflammatory condition, it can be difficult to specify or predict an exact recovery time.

In mild to moderate cases, inflammation and associated pain can reduce in anywhere from 1- 8 weeks.

However, if there are underlying causes for your Bursitis, the rehab process can take longer.

Bursitis Treatment: How Physio Can Help

At RRP Physiotherapy we can help to accelerate your recovery time from bursitis.

Whether it’s Shoulder Bursitis, Hip Bursitis or Elbow Bursitis, we have the tools to:

1. Assess and identity the cause of your bursitis.
2. Provide a clear diagnosis.
3. Develop a time-efficient treatment/rehab plan.
4. Implement a variety of treatment techniques e.g. Massage, Trigger Point Release, Dry Needling, Joint Manipulation etc

Ready to address your aches and pains with a qualified professional?

Click here and make a booking to see a physiotherapist at RRP Physiotherapy today!