What is Bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. It can affect the hip (trochanteric bursitis), knee (prepatellar bursitis), shoulder (subacromial bursitis), heel (retrocalcaneal bursitis), and other locations throughout the body.
At Lower Limb Clinic, bursitis is a condition that benefits directly from our multidisciplinary approach. Our in-house diagnostic ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis at your first appointment, and treatment options span structured rehabilitation, shockwave therapy, and injection therapy, all available under one roof without external referrals.
Common Symptoms
- Localised pain over a joint: hip, knee, shoulder, or heel
- Swelling or a feeling of fullness at the affected area
- Pain that worsens with pressure or movement
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Pain lying on the affected side (hip bursitis)
- Pain climbing stairs or walking uphill (knee bursitis)
- Warmth or redness over the affected area
Common Causes
- Trochanteric bursitis (greater trochanteric pain syndrome)
- Subacromial bursitis (shoulder impingement)
- Prepatellar bursitis (kneeling-related)
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis (behind the heel)
- Pes anserine bursitis (inner knee)
- Olecranon bursitis (elbow)
- Overuse and repetitive loading
- Biomechanical dysfunction contributing to abnormal loading
How We Treat Bursitis
Our approach begins with accurate diagnosis using clinical assessment and in-house diagnostic ultrasound. Treatment is then tailored to the location and severity of your bursitis. Options include targeted rehabilitation to address the underlying mechanical causes, shockwave therapy for chronic cases, and ultrasound-guided injection therapy when rapid relief is needed. For lower limb bursitis, we integrate biomechanical assessment and orthotic prescription to prevent recurrence.
Diagnostic Ultrasound
Targeted Rehabilitation
Shockwave Therapy
Injection Therapy
Ready to get bursitis treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Joint pain persists for more than two weeks
- Swelling is significant or increasing
- Pain is preventing you from sleeping on the affected side
- Your mobility is becoming restricted
- You have had bursitis before and it has returned
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are not helping
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Bursitis at Lower Limb Clinic.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast