Common Causes And Risk Factors Of Bursitis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The development of bursitis has been linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis also develop some form of bursitis, with one of the most common being hip bursitis. Bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the outer lining of the bursa. This lining, called the synovial membrane, is essential for joint and tissue cushioning. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that causes the immune system to attack and break down the synovial membrane around the joints. This causes pain, inflammation, and progressive joint damage. Though it's not guaranteed that the immune system will also attack the synovial membrane surrounding the bursae, research has found rheumatoid arthritis patients have a higher risk of developing bursitis than individuals without it. In a similar vein, patients with gout have greater chances of developing bursitis because of the buildup of urate crystals within their synovial joints.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that can cause widespread damage throughout the body, and individuals with diabetes may be more likely to develop bursitis. The most common type of bursitis seen in those with diabetes is shoulder bursitis, which may be related to other conditions like frozen shoulder and osteoarthritis. If there's nerve damage in the feet and lower legs, it's possible bursitis will develop in the heel or the big toe. Individuals with nerve damage in their feet should consistently examine their feet for signs of inflammation, infection, and injury. If the damage has led to numbness, they may not be able to feel bursitis-related pain in the foot. Diabetes occurs when a patient's blood sugar levels become too high, which leads to multiple kinds of damage. The disease is caused by an inability to create or to use sufficient insulin. Insulin is responsible for converting blood sugar into usable energy.