Bursitis Treatments

Bursitis Treatments in Northern New Jersey

Whether you are suffering from elbow, shoulder, or hip bursitis, you need to find a team that can help put your mind and body at ease. The specialists at Bergen Pain Management in Paramus, West New York, and Union, NJ can help diagnose, explain, and treat this common affliction so you can get back to work and keep doing the things you love. Our board-certified, award-winning Dr. Thomas Ragukonis has over 25 years of experience, making us the premier practice for minimally invasive pain management in the Northern New Jersey area.

What Causes Of Bursitis Pain?

Bursitis shoulder, knee, and elbow pain is fairly common. The condition affects the bursae, small sacs throughout your body filled with fluid. Bursae are designed to cushion your bones, muscles, and tendons near joints. Occasionally, the bursa near commonly used joints become inflamed, causing consistent aches and pains.

Bursitis can occur because of repetitive movements (throwing and lifting) in joints near the hip, shoulder, and elbow and less frequently in the knee, heel, or the base of the big toe. The likelihood of bursitis tends to increase with age, and conditions such as gout, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis may add to your risk.

Additionally, your workplace may contribute to your risk. Those who work on their knees, such as carpenters or gardeners, are more likely to suffer from bursitis in the lower body, while those who often set their arms on a desk are more likely to suffer from olecranon bursitis in the elbow.

Symptoms And Diagnosis

While bursitis can be a painful ailment, its symptoms are generally easy to pinpoint. Achy or stiff joints or joints that are painful when moved or pressed are a reliable indication. If the area is swollen or red, that is usually a sign of inflammation. Sometimes this pain is temporary, but you should seek medical attention if it becomes debilitating, if you are unable to move the affected area, or if you begin to see excessive redness, bruising, or swelling.

In general, bursitis can be diagnosed with a simple physical examination and some information regarding medical history. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs may be administered, although these tests are mainly used to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. It is possible blood or fluid from the bursa may be tested as well.

Ways To Treat And Prevent Bursitis

Treatment of bursitis comes in many different forms. The most basic and simple treatment is rest. Because inflammation may go away on its own, the doctor may first suggest rest and ice on the affected area. Pain relievers may be suggested to help with discomfort and irritation. If infection appears to be the root cause, antibiotics may be prescribed.

If something more substantial is required, a corticosteroid injection may be administered. This is a minimally invasive procedure that works quickly and generally only required a single shot. Therapy is also a solution designed to help you stretch or strengthen the joint, and devices like canes may be suggested to assist you with everyday activity. Lastly, surgery is a possibility if the pain persists for more than six months. However, the joint is usually drained rather than removed altogether.

In order to avoid the pain and stress associated with bursitis, there are a few simple steps you can take to help prevent it, including:

  • Wearing knee pads when kneeling
  • Practicing proper form when lifting
  • Taking breaks when needed
  • Exercising in moderation
  • Warming up and stretching before physical activity

Consult With Bergen Pain Management In Northern NJ


When it’s time to get an expert medical opinion on your swollen or achy joints, look to the team at Bergen Pain Management to help. Dr. Thomas Ragukonis and his staff are ready to offer personalized treatment plans that fit your needs. Visit one of our locations in Paramus, West New York, or Union, NJ, or contact us today for more information.

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