A bursa normally contains very little fluid. If injured, however, it becomes inflamed and may fill with fluid. Although the shoulder is most susceptible to bursitis, bursas in the elbows, hips, pelvis, knees, toes, and heels commonly become inflamed. Symptoms Bursitis causes pain and tends to limit movement, but the specific symptoms depend on the location of the inflamed bursa. For example, when a bursa in the shoulder becomes inflamed, raising the arm out from the side of the body, as when putting on a jacket, is painful and difficult.
Acute bursitis occurs suddenly.
The inflamed area is painful when moved or touched. The skin over bursas located close to the surface, such as near the knee and elbow, can appear red and swollen. Acute bursitis caused by an infection or gout is particularly painful, and the affected area is red and feels warm when touched. Chronic bursitis may result from previous bouts of acute bursitis or repeated injuries. Eventually, the walls of the bursa thicken, and abnormal material with solid, chalky calcium deposits may accumulate in them.