Bursitis is commonly caused by repetitive movement and excessive pressure. Elbows and knees are the most commonly affected. Inflammation of the bursae might also be caused by other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Although infrequent, scoliosis might cause bursitis of the shoulders; however, shoulder bursitis is more commonly caused by overuse of the shoulder joint and related muscles. Traumatic injury is another cause of bursitis. The inflammation irritates because the bursa no longer fits in the original small area between the bone and the functionary muscle or tendon. When the bone increases pressure upon the bursa, bursitis results. Sometimes the reason is unknown. It can also be associated with some chronic systemic diseases.
How Can Our Physical Therapist Help?
Based on the evaluation, our physical therapists will develop a customized rehabilitation program for you. In the acute stage this might include modalities to reduce inflamation and irritation of the Bursea and surrounding soft tissue such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation as well as cryotherapy and thermotherapy. As the Bursea settles then manual therapy and exercises are incorperated to adress and strength and /or mobility deficites. Finally, the goal is to return to normal functioning, so ergonomics and functional movement analysis and corrective measures are adressed to aid in the final stages of recovery.
What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is the inflammation of one or more bursae (small sacs) of synovial fluid in the body. The bursae rest at the points where internal functionaries, such as muscles and tendons, slide across bone. Healthy bursae create a smooth, almost frictionless functional gliding surface making normal movement painless. When bursitis occurs, however, movement relying upon the inflamed bursa becomes difficult and painful. Moreover, movement of tendons and muscles over the inflamed bursa aggravates its inflammation, perpetuating the problem.