Bursitis, << buhr SY tihs, >> is a disorder that causes pain in the body’s joints. It most commonly affects the shoulder or hip joints. It is caused by an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled bag that acts as a lubricating surface for a muscle to move over a bone. This inflammation usually results from overactivity of an arm or leg. The shoulder or the hip becomes painful and difficult to move. Doctors treat bursitis by injecting cortisone drugs into the sac, or with heat, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or ultrasound (high-pitched sound). Less common forms are elbow swellings, housemaid’s knee, or bunions.
