What is bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa — small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. Common sites: shoulder, elbow (olecranon), hip (trochanteric), knee (prepatellar — "housemaid's knee").
Most bursitis is from repetitive use, pressure, or minor trauma. Septic bursitis (infected) is uncommon but needs antibiotics. Most cases improve with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatories.
Do I have bursitis? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Repetitive motion, prolonged pressure, trauma, injury. Risk factors: certain occupations (carpet layers, gardeners), sports, infections (septic bursitis), inflammatory arthritis (RA, gout).
Is it contagious?
No.
If your elbow looks like a goose egg from leaning on it at the desk — classic olecranon bursitis. Stop leaning.
Can it be treated online?
Routine bursitis is well-suited to telehealth. Septic bursitis (warm, very red, fever), uncertain diagnosis, refractory cases, or need for joint injection benefit from in-person care.
How bursitis is treated
Rest and activity modification. Ice 15–20 min several times daily. NSAIDs — ibuprofen, naproxen. Compression. Avoid pressure on affected area (pad if needed). Steroid injection for persistent or severe cases (in-person). Aspiration for large or septic bursitis. Antibiotics if septic.
Self-care while you wait
- Avoid the activity that triggered it
- Ice 15–20 min several times daily
- Compression wrap or sleeve
- Elevation
- NSAIDs short-term
- Padding/cushioning to avoid pressure
- Stretching once acute pain subsides
- Strengthening exercises (PT)
How long does it last?
Most resolves in 1–2 weeks. Chronic cases may persist longer or recur.
Frequently asked questions
Should I drain it?
Aspiration is done by a clinician — for diagnosis (rule out infection, gout) or relief. Don't drain at home — infection risk.
Is it bursitis or tendinitis?
Often coexist. Bursitis is more swelling/lump; tendinitis is more pain with specific motions.
Will a steroid injection help?
Yes for persistent cases. Generally limit to 2–3 injections per joint per year.
Can I work out?
Avoid the offending activity. Cross-train with non-aggravating exercises.
Why does it keep coming back?
Recurrent bursitis usually means recurrent pressure/use. Address ergonomics, padding, training pattern.
