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Bouncing Back from Bursitis
It doesn’t have a catchy name. You don’t hear celebrities talking about it on Oprah. You won’t find a reseach foundation dedicated to curing it. It’s right up there with gallstones and gout. It’s hardly glamorous. It’s bursitis. And, boy can it hurt. What is it? According to Michael W. Weiss, M.D., orthopedic surgeon with Tri Rivers Surgical Associates, bursitis occurs when the sac located between a bone and a muscle or tendon becomes inflammed. "The bursa is a structure that allows the muscle or tendon to move smoothly over the bone," Dr. Weiss said. "Repetitive stress or overuse can irritate the bursa sac, leading to intense pain and swelling." People of all ages and fitness levels can develop bursitis, but it is most common in the weekend warrior — someone who is relatively inactive during the week, but engages in physical activity on the weekend. The risk of developing bursitis also increases with age. "An abrupt increase in physical activity and inadequate stretching before and after exercise are significant factors in developing bursitis," said Dr. Weiss. "These actions put extra stress on the entire body, including the bursa." Bursitis can occur almost anywhere in the body, but it is most common in the shoulder, elbow and knee. "Symptoms often include pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness and/or limited range of motion near the affected joint," Dr. Weiss said. Bursitis is generally not a serious condition and, with proper care, can often improve on its own in a couple of weeks. But, even with treatment, some people experience chronic bursitis. How can you help your bursa sacs feel good again? Dr. Weiss recommends the following: Rest and apply ice to the affected area for the first 24 to 72 hours after symptoms appear. Anti-inflammatory medications, whether over-the-counter or prescribed by your doctor, may help relieve pain and inflammation. If necessary, a cortisone injection around the affected area can provide long-lasting relief. Avoid putting excessive pressure on the swollen area. If the condition worsens or does not improve in a week or two, seek medical attention. "Surgery to remove the bursa is considered only when symptoms significantly affect a person’s activities or when he or she does not get any relief from conservative treatment," Dr. Weiss said. Maintaining a healthy body weight and staying active are also helpful in preventing bursitis. "A healthy weight reduces strain on the bursa, and stretching keeps the body flexible," said Dr. Weiss. "Whether it’s walking, cycling or doing work around the house, regular physical activity accompanied by proper stretching will keep the body conditioned and help prevent bursitis."
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