Bursitis swelling: what it looks like and what to do

Swelling is easier to see when the bursa lies just under the skin, such as at the elbow or in front of the kneecap. Deeper bursae may cause pain without an obvious lump.

Repeated pressure, a direct knock, inflammatory disease, crystals or infection can all inflame a bursa. A localised, compressible mound points toward a superficial bursa, while swelling of the whole joint may arise from fluid inside the joint or surrounding tissues.

Warmth and tenderness can occur without infection, but marked redness, broken skin, drainage, fever or rapid progression raise concern. Clinicians use the location, onset, skin appearance and joint movement to narrow the cause. Ultrasound or fluid sampling may be useful when the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Protect the area from pressure and stop the specific repetitive task that triggered irritation. Apply a cool pack through cloth, elevate the limb if practical and keep the nearby joint moving gently. Padding can reduce contact when activity resumes.

Do not massage aggressively, pierce or drain the swelling. Discuss anti-inflammatory medicine with a pharmacist or clinician if you have stomach ulcers, kidney or heart problems, take blood-thinning medicine, are pregnant, or use other regular medication. Persistent swelling should be examined rather than repeatedly self-treated.

Arrange same-day assessment when swelling is hot, red, rapidly enlarging or draining, or when it occurs with fever or feeling unwell. Infection can be present even without every one of these features, especially after a cut, puncture or graze over the bursa.

Seek urgent help after significant trauma if the joint looks misshapen, you cannot use the limb, or pain is severe. A new swollen calf with breathlessness or chest pain also requires immediate medical attention and should not be assumed to be bursitis.

Ask whether the swelling comes from a bursa, the joint or another tissue; whether infection or crystals need to be excluded; and which activities are safe. If aspiration or injection is proposed, ask what information or relief it may provide and what aftercare is required.