Bursitis: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Guide
A complete guide to understanding and treating bursitis. Learn about causes, physiotherapy treatments, exercises, and recovery expectations.
Key Takeaways
1. Bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints2. Most cases resolve with conservative treatment in 4-8 weeks3. Physiotherapy addresses both symptoms and underlying causes4. Strengthening surrounding muscles prevents recurrence
A complete guide to understanding and treating bursitis. Learn about causes, physiotherapy treatments, exercises, and recovery expectations.
Understanding Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Common locations include the shoulder (subacromial bursitis), hip (trochanteric bursitis), elbow (olecranon bursitis), knee (prepatellar bursitis), and heel (retrocalcaneal bursitis).
Causes and Risk Factors
Bursitis is most commonly caused by repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on a joint. Risk factors include repetitive activities (sports, occupational tasks), prolonged kneeling or leaning, muscle weakness, poor flexibility, and underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy treatment includes manual therapy to reduce muscle tension, therapeutic exercises to strengthen weak muscles and improve flexibility, activity modification advice, modalities like ultrasound or shockwave therapy, and a graduated return-to-activity program.
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Related Conditions
Related Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Manisha Sachdeva
Physiotherapist at Actilife Physiotherapy · Updated 3 June 2026
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