Joints are complex connections that require tendons, muscles, fluids, and bones to all work in harmony with one another. Bursitis takes place when some of the soft tissue that cushions a joint becomes inflamed. When left untreated, this inflammation can cause permanent damage and forever impact an individual's mobility and flexibility. Here is a look at some of the risk factors of bursitis as well as the most common treatment options.

Top Symptoms of Bursitis

Most joints throughout the body are padded with small sacs of fluid known as bursae. Not only do the bursae cushion an individual's joints, but they also reduce friction during movement. The bursae are generally quite durable, but acute and chronic injuries can damage them. Ongoing irritation forces the body's immune system to flood the area with additional fluid, and this generally results in visible swelling, discoloration, and discomfort.

Risk Factors from Joint Inflamation

Adults who are over the age of 40 have the highest risk of developing bursitis. While practically any joint can be affected by this condition, it generally takes place in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. The most common cause of bursitis is a repetitive motion or impact on the joints such as walking, lifting heavy boxes, or swinging a tennis racket. Patients can also develop this condition if they suffer a serious joint injury or damage the nearby soft tissue. Other issues that can have an impact on bursitis include gout, arthritis, and thyroid disorders. Obese patients suffer from very high rates of bursitis as well.

Lifestyle Changes for Bursitis

In its earliest stages, this joint condition is generally taken care of with minor lifestyle changes. Patients should rest the injured area, ice the joint, and take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory. If a specific action or movement is causing the damage, then the patient should explore ways they can avoid those situations entirely. Once the area has healed, it might be necessary to wear a brace to support the joint and surrounding tissue. Patients who continue to reinjure the bursae must speak with a doctor about additional treatment options.

Medical Procedures for Reducing Pain

For more severe pain and inflammation, the doctor might suggest the use of corticosteroids. This compound is typically administered in the form of one or more shots near the affected joint. Steroids are extremely effective at reducing both inflammation and pain at the site of the injury. These injections are generally followed by physical therapy sessions to help patients deal with mobility issues and a loss of strength. When this condition is left untreated and the joint itself becomes damaged, most patients must undergo reconstructive surgery to remove damaged pieces of bone or replace the joint entirely.