Asian men are cycling road bike in the morning

What Causes Bursitis To Flare Up

Lubrication and cushioning between your joints are critical to moving freely and without pain. One of the most important parts of the anatomy of joints are the small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae. These provide the primary cushioning between the joints during movement and protect the bones from damage should impacts happen.

As important as they are, they are very vulnerable, and if they are damaged or inflamed can cause significant and potentially debilitating pain. The most common issues of the bursae come when they become inflamed. Although the symptoms closely mimics arthritis, bursitis is also commonly misdiagnosed as other joint issues such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout. A thorough and accurate exam, potentially including blood work, is essential to a correct diagnosis of bursitis.

Although there is no cure for bursitis, there’s a few ways to help reduce the inflammation of the bursae before significant pain sets in.

Avoid repetitive stress and overuse. Bursitis is caused by several factors. Primary among these are repetitive stress and overuse. Repetitive movements of the legs while under load, such as during cycling, can lead to bursitis.

Too much pressure on the joint without moving. Placing a significant weight on the bursae without moving such as standing, can cause the sacs to compress and lead to inflammation. The bursae are meant to cushion the joints during movement and not continually support body weight.

Maintain treatment of other joint or muscle conditions. Although bursitis can mimic many other issues of the joints, many issues can be causal factors for bursitis development. Some joint issues such as gout and tendonitis can cause overcompensation towards another joint or even to portions within the same joint. By keeping up on treating other joint issues, you can reduce the likelihood they will cause bursitis.

If you believe you are suffering from bursitis and want relief, call Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Center in Pinehurst, NC, at 910-295-0224, or visit www.drjohnmoore.com to schedule a consultation today. Dr. Moore and his expert team will provide a comprehensive examination and accurately diagnosis your joint pain and create a treatment plan to help you become pain-free.