The muscles and bones of the body work together like a smoothly
oiled machine. Some of the “oil” is provided by fluid-filled
sacks called bursae. Bursae are strategically located in areas
where muscles, ligaments, and tendons might otherwise rub
against bones. The smooth surface of a bursa allows tissues to
move across each other without friction. Bursae, however, can
become inflamed, leading to a condition called bursitis. One of
the main causes of bursitis is repetitive motion. For example,
custodians who use a vacuum cleaner may develop bursitis in the
elbow. Excessive pressure, such as caused by prolonged kneeling,
can also injure a bursa. More rarely, gout, arthritis, and
certain infections can cause bursitis. Bursitis occurs most
commonly in the hip, knee, elbow, or heel. Symptoms include
tenderness, swelling, and pain with motion. Conventional
treatment involves resting the affected area and using anti-
inflammatory drugs. If an attack of bursitis does not respond to
this treatment, drainage of the burs