Causes and risks Return to top Bursae are fluid-filled cavities located at tissue sites where tendons or muscles pass over bony prominences near joints. Their function is to facilitate movement and reduce friction between moving parts. The cause of bursitis may be chronic overuse, trauma, rheumatoid arthritis , gout , infection, or unknown. Other areas affected include the Achilles tendon and the foot.
Chronic inflammation can occur with repeated attacks of bursitis or injuries.
Prevention Return to top Avoid activities that include repetitive movements of a body part. Treatment Return to top Temporary rest or immobilization of the affected joint may be recommended. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be effective in relieving pain and decreasing the inflammation. If the inflammation does not respond to conservative treatment, aspiration of fluid from the bursa and the injection of corticosteroids into the bursa is an alternative treatment. Surgery is rarely required.