Bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, causing pain and swelling. Learn how to treat it at home, when to see a GP, and how to stop it coming back. What Is Bursitis ? Bursitis occurs when the bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints—becomes inflamed. When irritated, these sacs can swell, leading to pain and restricted movement. Understanding why a bursa becomes inflamed in the first place is key to managing this condition effectively. A physiotherapist is your best resource for assessing the biomechanics involved and tailoring a treatment plan. Bursitis is the painful inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near your joints. Ice can ease symptoms. Bursitis is a swelling or inflammation of a bursa, which is a synovium-lined, sac-like structure found throughout the body near bony prominences and between bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There are over 150 known bursae in the human body, and their function is to facilitate movement in the musculoskeletal system, creating a cushion between tissues that move against one another. When bursitis occurs, the bursa enlarges with fluid, and any movement against or direct pressure upon the ...
