There are approximately 160 bursas in the body. A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac lined that provides a cushion between bones, tendons and/or muscles around a joint. The bursa helps to reduce friction between the bones and allows free movement. Bursitis is inflammation in the bursa. Most commonly, bursitis is due to infection, repetitive movements, and excess pressure. The hips, shoulders, elbows and knees are the most commonly affected regions. Bursitis can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications and typically respond very well to steroid injections. On rare occasions, patients develop chronic bursitis that does not respond well to anti-inflammatories. In these cases, surgery is an option.
Recognizing the Signs of Bursal Inflammation
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When the small, fluid-filled sacs designed to cushion your joints become irritated and inflamed, every movement generates friction, leading to localized pain and restricted mobility.
Frequent repetitive motions, prolonged localized pressure, or acute trauma that repeatedly stress the bursa sac.
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Underlying inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or localized staph infections driving the fluid buildup
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Utilizing advanced ultrasound and MRI modalities to visualize bursa swelling, identify fluid collections, and rule out structural joint damage.
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Direct, ultrasound-guided delivery of corticosteroids and local anesthetics into the bursa to rapidly halt the inflammatory cascade.
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Expert Tip: "Early intervention is key. Treating bursa inflammation promptly with targeted, image-guided injections can prevent the permanent thickening of the bursa sac, which often leads to chronic, treatment-resistant pain."
Pain Relief Speed
Treatment Approach
Recovery Time
Procedure Setting
Rapid onset
Image-guided
Minimal downtime
In-office
Weeks to months
Broad systemic
Prolonged rest
Home or hospital
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