Bursitis, or the inflammation of a bursa, is usually due to overuse, be it tennis elbow, housemaid's knee, or many other conditions. Symptoms usually suddenly appear and consist of a dull ache or discomfort that increases in severity when the joint is used. Swelling may be present. The discomfort usually goes away after a few days of rest and medications. Chronic bursitis may also take place, which can last for weeks.
Treatment consists of resting the involved joint.
If it occurs acutely, cold pack applications are helpful. Non-steroidal inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen decrease the inflammation.