Bursitis a common cause of painful hips, knees, heels, elbows

With warmer weather urging people to engage in outdoor activity, physicians will see an increase in patients complaining of various joint pains. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons released a reminder to patients and physicians alike that while it may be easy to ignore these seemingly simple aches and pains, a potential diagnosis of bursitis should be kept in mind.

The reminder comes on the heels of a review article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

“Bursitis is a common cause of musculoskeletal pain and often prompts orthopaedic consultation,” study author Daniel Aaron, MD, stated in the release. “One of the challenges facing clinicians is to differentiate bursitis from conditions with similar symptoms, including arthritis, tendinitis, fracture, tendon or ligament injury and tumor. Additionally, bursitis arises from infectious and noninfectious causes, and distinguishing between the two can be challenging.”

Brown added that a thorough history and physical examination are required for accurate diagnosis. Further tests can help a physician determine if bursitis is the appropriate diagnosis and, moreover, determine whether infection is involved.

Bursitis can often be treated nonoperatively, through methods including use of ice packs, modification of activity, administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, stretching exercising, or a change in footwear. Methods will depend upon the type of bursitis observed.

“By recognizing the presence of bursitis and determining whether or not infection is involved, clinicians can identify the best mode of treatment which will resolve symptoms and help the patient regain mobility,” Aaron stated in the release.

Reference:

Aaron DL, Patel A, Kayiaros S, Calfee R. Four common types of bursitis: Diagnosis and management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2011(19):359-367.

www.aaos.org

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