nivelpussi

Nivelpussi, in Finnish medical terminology, refers to the synovial bursa, a small fluid-filled sac near a joint. Bursae are lined by a synovial membrane and contain slippery synovial fluid. They function to cushion moving tissues such as tendons and bones and to reduce friction during joint movement.

Structure and distribution: Bursae can be superficial under the skin or deep next to the joint capsule or tendons. The body contains numerous bursae, with notable examples including the subacromial bursa in the shoulder, the prepatellar and superficial infrapatellar bursae in the knee, and the olecranon bursa at the elbow. Some bursae communicate with the joint space, while others do not.

Function: By providing a lubricated, low-friction interface, nivelpussit allow smooth gliding of tendons over bones and other structures. They also act as cushions that absorb pressure during movement and repetitive loading.

Clinical relevance: Inflammation of a bursa is called bursitis. Bursitis can be aseptic (noninfectious) due to overuse, trauma, or inflammatory diseases, or septic due to infection. Symptoms typically include localized swelling, tenderness, warmth, and possibly restricted movement. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging such as ultrasound or MRI; aspiration of bursal fluid may be used to assess infection or crystals. Treatment generally includes rest, ice, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; aspiration or corticosteroid injections may be employed if appropriate, and antibiotics are required for septic bursitis. Chronic or recurrent bursitis or bursae linked to underlying structures may require longer-term management or surgical consideration.