Bursitis facts for kids

Bursitis is a condition that can cause pain. It happens when small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae become swollen. Bursae are like tiny cushions. They are found between your muscles and your bones. These sacs help your body parts move smoothly. They stop your bones and muscles from rubbing together. When you have bursitis, these sacs often fill with extra fluid. This makes them swell up and hurt. Bursitis most often affects your hip and shoulder. But it can also happen in your elbow, knee, or even your toe.

What are the signs of Bursitis?

The main sign of bursitis is pain. You might feel this pain when you move the affected joint. Bursitis can also make your joint feel stiff. Sometimes, the area around the bursa might look swollen.

What causes Bursitis?

Bursitis often happens when you use a joint too much. Doing the same movement over and over can irritate the bursa. For example, throwing a ball many times can affect your shoulder. Swelling can also happen if the joint gets locked.

How is Bursitis treated?

There are a few ways to treat bursitis. The best way is to rest the affected joint. You should also try to lift the joint up. This can help reduce swelling. Putting ice on the area for about 20 minutes can also help. Do this three or four times a day. Sometimes, a doctor might give you a medicine called cortisone. This medicine can be put right into the hurt bursa.

Images for kids

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  3D still showing Bursitis.

See also

In Spanish: Bursitis para niños