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Bursitis Specialist

Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists

Rheumatologists located in Plantation, FL

On average, you have 160 bursa sacs in your body, which ensure that your joints function smoothly by providing necessary lubrication. When one of these small sacs becomes inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis, which can cause considerable pain and even immobility. As rheumatologists, Dr. Guillermo Valenzuela and Dr. Marilu Colon of Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists, have the tools and expertise necessary to restore pain-free movement to your joints. If you’re in the area of Plantation, Florida, call the office or book an appointment using the online scheduler to learn more.

Bursitis Q & A

What is Bursitis?

Your joints are incredibly complex areas where your bones and soft tissue come together to allow movement and range of motion. Ensuring that these components work together smoothly are small sacs called bursae.

Your bursae are located at different points in your joints where your bone rubs against soft tissues, such as your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Each bursa sac provides a cushion between the surfaces of the bone and the other tissue.

A bursa sac is composed of a synovial membrane that contains (and produces) synovial fluid. When this membrane becomes inflamed or irritated, it leads to bursitis.

What Causes Bursitis?

The most common cause of bursitis is overuse and repetitive stresses on your joints. Outside of overuse, if you have inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, you’re more prone to developing bursitis.

Where Does Bursitis Develop?

Technically speaking, bursitis can develop in any of the 160 bursa sacs throughout your body. Still, some joints are more active, and therefore more prone to bursitis, including your:

  • Hips
  • Knees
  • Shoulders
  • Elbows
  • Heels
  • Big toes

While this list represents the most common areas where you might experience bursitis, the condition can develop at any location.

What are the Symptoms of Bursitis?

One of the first signs of bursitis is nagging, or aching pain in your joint. This pain may be constant or increase with movement. In addition to the pain, you may also experience:

  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Redness or bruising
  • Fever
  • The inability to move your joint

As with most all musculoskeletal issues, it’s best to get in to see your doctor at Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists at the first signs of distress.

How is Bursitis Treated?

When it comes to bursitis, the first order of business is to tackle the inflammation. Your doctor accomplishes this through:

  • RICE -- rest, ice, compression, and elevation
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Bracing, splinting, or aids for mobility, such as a cane
  • Physical therapy

The key to treating bursitis is to follow your doctor’s instructions and rest the inflamed area, which means you’ll need to be patient. Your patience will pay off as you regain pain-free movement of your joint.

If bursitis is causing you pain, call the team at Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists to find relief. Or you can use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.

What we offer

Rheumatology & Immunology Services