What causes bursitis?

Bursae are small cushions that reduce friction where skin, tendons or muscles move over bone. Repeated kneeling, leaning on an elbow, throwing, lifting or a sudden increase in activity can overload one of these cushions. A direct blow may also trigger inflammation.

Less commonly, bacteria enter a bursa through a cut or nearby skin infection. Gout, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can also make bursitis more likely. The cause depends partly on the location, recent activities, skin condition and medical history.

Pause the activity or position that provokes pain, but keep comfortable movement within the joint's easy range. Protect a pressure point with padding, and use a wrapped cold pack for short periods if it eases soreness. Avoid repeatedly pressing or trying to drain the swelling yourself.

A clinician can check whether altered technique, footwear, work setup or muscle weakness is maintaining the irritation. Medication may not suit people with certain stomach, kidney, heart or bleeding problems, so check before using an anti-inflammatory drug.

Seek prompt care for a hot, red, rapidly enlarging swelling, fever, chills, drainage or a break in the skin over the area. These features can occur with an infected bursa and should not be managed only with home care.

Arrange an assessment if pain follows a significant injury, prevents normal use of the limb, keeps returning or does not improve after reducing the trigger. Sudden severe joint pain or inability to bear weight also needs timely evaluation because another joint problem may be responsible.

Ask which bursa appears affected, whether infection or gout needs to be excluded, and which movement or pressure is the likely trigger. You can also ask when to resume work or sport, whether physiotherapy would address contributing mechanics, and what change in symptoms should prompt another review.