Causes and risk factors
The most common cause of bursitis is a repetitive or constant motion which causes pressure on the bursae. Hence it is more commonly seen in baseball players, or bowlers in cricket, carpenters, and gardeners and in obese people. Trauma is another common cause of bursitis. Certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, systemic lupus erythematosus, HIV and diabetes can also cause bursitis. Bursitis can also occur due to infection and some unknown causes.
Clinical presentation:
Symptoms develop gradually. The most common bursas affected are hip, shoulder and elbow. Pain in joint, swelling and stiffness are the prominent features. Pain may vary from person to person. It can be mild or severe. Sharp shooting pain can be experienced by the patient. Difficulty in movement like walking, standing, sitting is experienced by the patient. Swelling, rash and redness on the affected joint occur. Muscle weakness, malaise and tenderness are also present.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor. Fluid analysis of the bursae is the diagnostic investigations. Certain investigations which can be done are X-ray, MRI or CT scan of the affected joint. Routine blood test and a profile of specialized blood test are done to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
Change in lifestyles is necessary to correct the pain. Weight reduction in obese, adequate rest, correction of wrong postures and regular exercises needs to be adopted. Wearing of braces and supports to hold the joint in alignment during movement, cold and hot compressions along with medications can be advised. Non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAID), steroids, DMARDS (Diseases modifying anti rheumatic drugs) and pain relieving drugs are prescribed. In severe cases corticosteroid injections and topical pain relieving gels and lubricants are advised. Surgical draining is sometimes required in some cases.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on the certain stimulating spots on the body has proved to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
Recent updates:
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has revealed that according to the new researches carried out platelet-rich plasma injections are significantly more effective and durable than cortisone injections for the treatment of severe chronic hip bursitis.
