Have you ever felt a nagging pain in your joints that just won’t go away? That discomfort might be more than just everyday aches—it could be bursitis. According to Dr. Rajesh Verma bursitis typically impacts the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees, although it can affect any joint. Let’s delve into the insights of Dr Rajesh Verma to understand what bursitis is, its Bursitis symptoms, causes, and Bursitis treatment.
What is Bursitis and What Causes it?
Bursitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. These tiny structures play a crucial role in reducing friction during movement.
Symptoms of bursitis
Bursitis might not be a household name, but for those who’ve experienced its painful grip, it’s all too familiar. Bursitis can cause a variety of symptoms, according to Dr Rajesh Verma, director and head of orthopedics, trauma and spine surgery, Marengo Asia hospital, Gurugram.
- Localized pain and tenderness around the affected joint
Bursitis can manifest in various ways, making it essential to recognize its symptoms early. The most common sign is localized pain and tenderness around the affected joint. This discomfort often worsens with movement. - Swelling
Swelling might also develop, giving a puffy appearance to the area surrounding the joint. It may feel warm or even hot to touch, indicating inflammation. - Restricted Mobility
Another key symptom is limited range of motion. Activities that were once easy may become challenging as bursitis progresses. - Inflammation
The skin around the inflamed bursa may feel warm to the touch.
What causes bursitis?
Infections can lead to septic bursitis when bacteria invade the bursa sac. Dr Rajesh Verma says, understanding these causes helps in recognizing symptoms of bursitis early and seeking appropriate treatment promptly.
- Prolonged pressure on a joint
It often results from repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on a joint. Activities like running, leaning for long periods, or even frequent kneeling can trigger this discomfort. - Overuse injuries and Aging
In addition to overuse injuries, other factors may contribute to bursitis. Age plays a role as well; older individuals are more prone due to wear and tear in their joints. Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also increase the risk by causing inflammatory responses within the body.
Insights on Diagnosis and Treatment of Bursitis
In a recent discussion with Dr. Rajesh Verma, we delved into the nuances of diagnosing bursitis. He emphasized that proper assessment often starts with a thorough patient history and physical examination. Identifying the location of pain is crucial since different joints can be affected.
Dr. Verma noted that imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may sometimes be necessary to rule out other conditions and confirm inflammation in the bursa sac. Early diagnosis aids in effective treatment strategies.
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When to Seek Medical Help: Red Flags for Bursitis
Recognizing when to seek medical help for bursitis is crucial. If the pain worsens or persists despite home treatment, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.
Look out for signs like swelling that spreads beyond the affected area. This could indicate an infection, which requires prompt attention. A fever accompanying your joint pain also warrants immediate evaluation.
If you experience severe pain that limits mobility or daily activities, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr Rajesh Verma for assistance. It’s essential to address any changes in skin color around the bursa too; redness may signal inflammation or infection.
Lastly, if symptoms are accompanied by sudden onset of weakness in the limb associated with bursitis, this should not be ignored. Seeking timely care can prevent complications and ensure effective management of your condition.
