Bursitis

Bursae are located throughout the body and act as cushions between bones and soft tissues. They contain lubricating fluid that helps the skin to move freely over the underlying bone.

Normally, a bursa is thin and flat. If it becomes irritated or inflamed, though, more fluid accumulates and bursitis will develop. Most commonly located in the elbow, shoulder, hip and knee, bursitis can occur for a number of reasons including trauma, prolonged pressure and infection.

Swelling is often the first symptom of bursitis, followed by pain and/or loose skin. The pain is usually described as sharp and intense. Later, it may feel more achy and spread out.