What is bursitis?
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac containing synovial fluid, located between bones, tendons, and muscles. These sacs play a key role in reducing friction and allowing smooth joint movement. When a bursa becomes inflamed, bursitis occurs, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility of the affected joint.
Bursitis can develop in any part of the body where bursae are present, but it most commonly occurs in the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heels. Depending on the cause and location, it can be acute (caused by sudden injury) or chronic (resulting from prolonged irritation of the bursa).
Causes and risk factors for bursitis
Bursitis can be caused by various factors, ranging from injuries and overuse of the joint to certain medical conditions and infections. The main causes include:
Injuries and overuse of the joint
Prolonged repetitive movements (e.g., computer work, lifting heavy objects, sports involving frequent arm and leg movements).
Blows or falls causing direct trauma to the bursa.
Sudden and improper movements that overload muscles and tendons around the bursa.
Infections
Although rare, bursitis can be caused by bacterial infection (septic bursitis). Infection usually occurs when bacteria enter through wounds or scratches and reach the bursa, causing severe inflammation and pain.
Chronic conditions
Arthritis (rheumatoid and gouty arthritis can contribute to bursitis development).
Diabetes (people with diabetes have a higher risk of inflammatory conditions).
Gout (uric acid crystals can deposit in bursae, causing inflammation).
Poor posture and biomechanical factors
Improper body posture can increase pressure on certain joints and cause bursa irritation.
Flat feet or poor footwear choice can contribute to bursitis in the lower limbs.
Age
Bursitis is more common in older adults due to natural joint wear and decreased tissue elasticity.
Symptoms of bursitis
Symptoms of bursitis may vary depending on the location and cause, but most commonly include:
🔴 Pain – It begins gradually or suddenly and worsens with joint movement.
🔴 Swelling and tenderness – The joint may appear swollen and be painful to touch.
🔴 Redness and warmth – In acute inflammation, the affected area may be red and warm.
🔴 Limited mobility – The patient may have difficulty moving the affected joint, especially in severe cases of bursitis.
If bursitis is not treated in time, chronic inflammation and severe movement restrictions can develop. It is especially important to distinguish between regular bursitis and septic bursitis (bacterial infection), which requires urgent medical intervention.
Diagnosis of bursitis
Accurate and timely diagnosis of bursitis is crucial for successful treatment and prevention of complications. At our Fizio In Locco center, we approach bursitis diagnosis comprehensively – starting with a clinical examination, through differential diagnosis, and additional diagnostic methods when necessary.
Clinical examination at our center
The first step in diagnosing bursitis is a detailed clinical examination conducted by our team of expert physiotherapists.
🔍 Anamnesis – A conversation with the patient about their symptoms, pain intensity, duration of the issues, previous injuries, work, and sports activities. Common questions we ask include:
When did the first symptoms appear?
Was there an injury or excessive use of the joint?
During which movements does the pain increase?
Is there swelling or redness present?
🔍 Palpation and inspection – The physiotherapist palpates the painful area to assess the presence of swelling, tenderness, increased warmth, or skin redness.
🔍 Mobility and functional tests – Through specific tests, we evaluate the range of motion and pain during movements that stress the bursa. For example:
Independent joint movements – If the patient can move the joint passively without pain but experiences pain during active movements, bursitis is suspected.
Resistance test – Applying gentle pressure to the affected joint to see if it causes or increases pain.
Based on these findings, we can make a preliminary diagnosis of bursitis. However, to exclude other similar conditions, a differential diagnosis is necessary.
Differential Diagnosis
Bursitis can have symptoms similar to other musculoskeletal diseases, so it is important to differentiate it from the following conditions:
Arthritis – Inflammation of the joint itself, whereas bursitis is inflammation of the bursa (outside the joint). Arthritis often affects multiple joints simultaneously and is accompanied by morning stiffness.
Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Symptoms are similar to bursitis, but pain usually worsens with active movements involving the affected muscle, while bursitis pain can be present even at rest.
Gout – An inflammatory disease caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints, which can cause severe pain and swelling. Gout attacks are typically sudden and accompanied by redness and intense swelling.
Infectious (septic) bursitis – Bacterial infection of the bursa leading to pronounced redness, warmth, and fever. This condition requires urgent treatment with antibiotics.
To ensure an accurate diagnosis, our center uses additional diagnostic methods when a more complex condition is suspected.
Treatment of bursitis at the Fizio and Estetik In Locco Center
t our Fizio and Estetik In Locco Center, bursitis treatment is conducted through a combination of modern physiotherapy methods, individualized exercises, and manual techniques, aiming to reduce pain, improve joint function, and prevent recurrence of the problem.
Our treatment approach is non-invasive, tailored to each patient, and focused on accelerating the natural healing process. The therapy consists of several key phases:
Physical medicine therapies
Physiotherapy is the primary and most effective way to treat bursitis, as it helps reduce pain and inflammation and restore joint function. At our center, we use the following methods:
✅ Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles and the nervous system, helping reduce pain and improve tissue function. This therapy is often applied for injury treatment, chronic pain, and muscle rehabilitation.
✅ Magnetotherapy
The use of magnetic fields accelerates tissue healing and improves blood flow in the affected area. It is effective for chronic bursitis and helps maintain long-term joint health.
✅ Therapeutic ultrasound
Application of ultrasound waves on inflamed tissue promotes faster regeneration. This method reduces swelling and pain and improves the absorption of anti-inflammatory substances if combined with gels or medications.
✅ Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is a treatment method that uses high-intensity acoustic waves to relieve pain and stimulate tissue regeneration. It is frequently used for treating muscle, tendon, and joint injuries.
✅ Laser therapy
Laser therapy uses low-intensity light (laser) to stimulate the healing process, reduce pain and inflammation. This therapy is often used in injury treatment, chronic pain relief, and to accelerate tissue regeneration.
Individualized exercises for muscle strengthening and mobility improvement
Besides physical therapies, exercise is crucial for the long-term resolution of bursitis issues. In our center, we create individualized exercise plans for each patient based on the condition of the joint and the level of pain.
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Gentle stretching of muscles and tendons helps improve joint flexibility and reduce pressure on the bursa.
Strengthening exercises target the muscles around the affected joint to decrease the load on the bursa and prevent recurrent inflammation.
Gradual increase in exercise intensity contributes to better joint stability.
Improving posture and joint mobility
Poor posture can further strain the bursa. Our therapists assist patients in correcting their posture and reducing improper movements that lead to chronic inflammation.
Dynamic exercises are used to enhance joint mobility and restore its full functional range.
Massages and Manual Therapy
Massage and manual techniques are an important part of therapy because they help relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension in the affected area.
Improvement of circulation and muscle tension relief
Gentle massages around the affected joint improve the flow of oxygen and nutrients, which speeds up regeneration.
Relaxing tense muscles reduces pressure on the bursa and alleviates pain.
Joint mobilization to restore full range of motion
Mobilization techniques are used when the joint is stiff and movement is limited.
They help patients regain natural mobility without pain.
Orthopedic aids and prevention tips
To help prevent the recurrence of bursitis, our center provides advice and recommends the use of various aids that make daily activities easier.
Use of orthoses, braces, or pads to protect the joints
Orthoses and braces stabilize the joint and reduce pressure on the bursa, allowing faster recovery.
Pads for knees or elbows are useful for people who perform tasks involving repetitive movements that strain the joints.
Recommendations for adapting daily activities
Avoid movements that put additional strain on the bursa (e.g., excessive kneeling, leaning on elbows).
Modify work and sports activities – adjust movement patterns to prevent re-irritation of the bursa.
Proper warm-up before physical activity – to prepare muscles and joints for exertion and reduce the risk of injury.
Prevention of Bursitis
Bursitis can be successfully treated with appropriate therapy, but it is equally important to prevent its recurrence. At the Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we place special emphasis on educating patients about prevention methods, as long-term joint health depends on proper movement, postural awareness, and a healthy lifestyle.
To reduce the risk of bursitis returning, it is important to apply the following strategies:
1. How to avoid recurrences (relapses) of the problem?
Bursitis often occurs due to excessive joint strain, poor posture, or repetitive movements. To reduce the chances of this problem recurring, follow these recommendations:
Avoid repetitive movements that can overload the bursa. If your job or sports activities involve frequent use of a specific joint, take regular breaks and use protective pads or cushions.
Use your muscles and joints properly — avoid sudden and improper movements that can cause excessive pressure on the bursa.
Correct your sitting and posture — poor postural mechanics increase joint strain and can contribute to the development of bursitis.
Lift loads correctly — if you often lift heavy objects, use proper technique (bend your knees instead of your waist) to reduce pressure on the joints.
Maintain regular physical activity — but focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joint, which helps reduce pressure on the bursa.
2. Proper Warm-Up Before Physical Activities
Improper or insufficient warm-up before exercise or physical effort can lead to injuries, including bursitis inflammation. Proper warm-up prepares muscles, joints, and tendons for activity, reducing the risk of overload.
Start with light cardio exercises (e.g., brisk walking, cycling, or light jogging for 5-10 minutes) to increase blood flow to muscles and joints.
Perform dynamic stretching exercises—movements that mimic the activities you will later perform help prepare the joints and reduce the risk of injury.
Gradually increase the intensity of physical activity so the body can adapt to the effort.
After exercising, don’t forget to stretch—it helps relax muscles and reduce pressure on the bursa.
3. Maintaining Optimal Body Weight and Proper Body Posture During Work
Excess body weight can significantly increase the load on joints, especially the knees, hips, and ankles, which may contribute to the development of bursitis. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces pressure on the bursa and allows easier movement without pain.
Proper nutrition – a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (such as fish, nuts, fruits, and vegetables) can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Regular physical activity – low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and yoga can improve joint mobility and help maintain a healthy body weight.
Proper sitting and posture – if you spend a lot of time sitting (e.g., at a computer), use ergonomic chairs and maintain correct positioning of your back and arms to avoid additional stress on the joints.
Perform muscle-strengthening exercises – strong muscle groups support the joints and reduce pressure on the bursa, helping to prevent recurrent inflammation.
Prevention of bursitis requires proper joint care, healthy habits, and awareness of movements that may overload the bursa. At the Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we not only treat existing problems but also teach you how to prevent their recurrence.
If you want to learn more about bursitis prevention or are experiencing joint pain, contact us and schedule a consultation – together, we will find the best solution for you!