Bursitis is a painful, potentially limiting condition that occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs, or bursae that cushion our bones, tendons and muscles near the joints become inflamed. This condition most often strikes the joints involved in performing repetitive actions, including the shoulders, knees and hips but also may affect the heels (Achilles’ tendon) and the base of the big toe.

While this condition may strike anyone of any age it most often occurs in adults older than 40 who have certain risk factors that increase chances of aggravating their bursae.

What Are My Risk Factors For Developing Bursitis?

While bursitis can strike anyone, the following risk factors increase chances of developing bursitis:

●     Age: Bursitis occurrence increases with age, with most bursitis cases diagnosed in adults older than 40

●     Occupations or Hobbies: If your job or regular hobby requires you to perform repetitive motions or to put regular pressure on a particular bursa, you increase your risk of developing bursitis. Examples include certain construction specialties, gardening, sports and playing musical instruments.

●     Medical Conditions: If you suffer from certain systemic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout or diabetes, you are at an increased risk of developing bursitis

What Are the Symptoms of Bursitis?

Bursitis unpleasant symptoms, the most common of which is pain. Among the other common symptoms of bursitis, patients often experience:

●     Soreness or stiffness in the affected joint

●     Pain, especially when the joint is moved or when pressure is applied

●     Swelling or redness of the affected joint

●     When the shoulder joint is affected, there may be a severe loss of motion, called adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder, which results from the immobility and pain associated with the condition.