Bursae
are fibrous sacs containing fluid found in those parts of the
body where bones, ligaments and tendons rub up against each
other, usually in association with joints, or where an area
is subject to physical compression. Bursae reduce friction and
act as shock absorbers. Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa.
The suffix “itis” in medicine always means “inflammation of” e.g. appendix – appendicitis, bronchi – bronchitis, colon – colitis. Bursitis is usually caused by trauma, inappropriate use of a joint, infection or illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis. Prepatellar bursitis, best known of all bursitis, is also called “ housemaid’s knee” where continuous kneeling on hard surfaces inflames the prepatellar bursa, which lies between the kneecap and the skin. The bursa becomes inflamed and swollen. Olecranon bursitis –“student’s elbow” – is swelling at the tip of the elbow. Another common bursitis seen by doctors is over the top part of the thighbone where it projects towards the skin, trochanteric bursitis. This is often confused by patient and doctor alike for arthritis of the hip. Bursitis is also common around the shoulder joint. It usually results in pain and restriction of movement but some bursitis, such as student’s elbow, can just appear as a painless swelling.
The usual management of bursitis is rest, advice – the student should, for example, not lean on his elbows, those doing a lot of kneeling should use kneepads – and appropriate analgesics. On many occasion the injection of local corticosteroids can give great relief. If infection is suspected, antibiotics will be used and, because of the danger of spread of infection to a local joint, these are often given intravenously. |
