Bursal

Bursal is an anatomical term used as an adjective to describe structures related to a bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac lined by a synovial membrane that reduces friction between moving tissues such as bone, tendon, and skin. Bursae are located throughout the body, most commonly in joints such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and around the heel and trochanter. They contain synovial fluid that acts as a cushion and lubricant, allowing smooth gliding of tendons and muscles during movement.

Bursitis refers to inflammation of a bursa. It can be aseptic (non-infectious) or septic (infected). Causes include repetitive motion and overuse, prolonged pressure, trauma, inflammatory diseases, and infection. Symptoms typically include localized swelling, warmth, redness, pain, and limited range of motion, which may worsen with activity.

Diagnosis is clinical, supported by imaging such as ultrasound or MRI to assess bursa size or fluid and to rule out other conditions. Aspiration of bursal fluid may be performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes; laboratory analysis can help distinguish septic from non-septic bursitis. Treatments include rest, activity modification, ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy. Septic bursitis requires antibiotics and often drainage; corticosteroid injections may be considered cautiously in non-septic cases. Persistent or recurrent bursitis may require surgical bursectomy or procedural drainage.

The term bursal reflects the relationship to a bursa. Etymology derives from Latin bursa, meaning purse, reflecting the sac-like nature of the structure.