Bursitis

What is going on in the body?

Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that act like cushions. They keep tendons and bones from rubbing against each other. Bursae are found in places like the shoulder, hips, knees and ankles. Bursitis occurs when bursae sacs become inflamed. Usually this happens if the bursae or tendon is over-used.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

Bursitis is caused when the bursa sac of a particular set of bones and tendons becomes inflamed, usually due to overuse. Sometimes trauma to a bursa will cause bursitis. Bursae can become infected, although this is not common.