For many bursitis sufferers, the pain may build up gradually while for others it may be sudden and severe, especially if calcium deposits are present. For people who suffer from bursitis in the shoulder, there may be severe loss of motion, called adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder, which results from the immobility and pain associated with shoulder bursitis.

While bursitis most often can be treated with home remedies and care to the affected joint, should any of the following less common symptoms arise, contact your healthcare professional and get medical attention:

●     Disabling joint pain that interferes with your normal, day-to-day activities or pain that persists for more than two weeks

●     Recurring episodes of bursitis

●     Excessive swelling, redness, bruising or a rash over the affected joint

●     Sharp or shooting pain, particularly when you exert yourself

●     A fever

What Causes Bursitis?

Bursitis typically is caused by performing repetitive motions that put strain on a joint or joints in the body, and may irritate the bursa around a joint. While many of these motions are the result of the tasks performed as a result of our occupations, many others are the result of actions performed during recreational activities, from gardening to sports. It may be triggered, especially at the knees or elbows when pressure is put on these joints for prolonged periods of time on hard surfaces, such as activities that require kneeling for long periods of time.

Bursitis can be caused by an injury to the affected joint or by forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and gout. In some cases, bursitis can be triggered by an infection -- a condition called septic bursitis, which will trigger symptoms including high fever, chills or a cellulitis infection. This form of bursitis requires urgent medical attention, to limit the spread of the infection and potential damage.