What Does Joint Swelling Feel Like With Bursitis?

Bursitis is irritation of a small fluid-filled cushion near a joint. The swelling may sit over the point of the elbow, front of the knee, shoulder or hip rather than filling the whole joint. It can feel squishy or fluid-filled, with soreness when you press on it or lean against it. Movement may be uncomfortable because nearby tissues are compressed, although the joint may still move through much of its usual range.

Skin warmth or redness can occur when inflammation is stronger. The feel varies with the bursa involved and with the cause, so a physical examination may be needed to separate bursitis from a problem inside the joint.

Reduce the activity or position that repeatedly presses on the area, while keeping gentle movement within a comfortable limit. A wrapped cold pack for short periods may calm soreness. Avoid resting your full weight on the swollen spot, and do not puncture or massage a visibly hot, red swelling. Arrange an assessment if it is not settling, keeps returning, or limits work, sleep or walking.

Seek prompt medical care for rapidly increasing swelling, marked warmth or redness, fever, drainage, severe pain, or difficulty moving the limb. These features can signal infection or another urgent joint problem. Sudden swelling after an injury, or swelling with numbness or a pale or cold hand or foot, also needs urgent evaluation.

Ask which bursa seems affected, whether the swelling is outside or inside the joint, and which movements should be limited temporarily. You can also ask how to protect the area during work or sport and what changes should trigger a follow-up visit.