Steroid injection for Bursitis | causes, types & treatment.
- mskultrasoundinjec
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
A bursa is a thin, fluid-filled sac usually located between a tendon or ligament and a nearby bone. It provides cushioning to reduce friction and allows smooth movement. There are several bursae throughout the body.When a bursa becomes inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis. This can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the affected joint.
Bursitis can occur in different parts of the body. Below are some of the most common types we see in our practice and how they are typically managed.
Ultrasound-Guided Steroid Injection for Bursitis
Steroid injections can significantly reduce inflammation and pain caused by bursitis, especially when rest, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory medication haven’t helped. These injections are performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precision and safety.
Sub-acromial shoulder bursitis
The sub-acromial bursa sits under a bone called the acromion and above the rotator cuff tendons. It allows the shoulder to move freely as we lift the arm.When this bursa becomes inflamed, it causes shoulder pain — often worse when lifting the arm above head height. It is one of the most frequent shoulder conditions we treat.
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection therapy is a recognised treatment option, particularly if rest, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory measures have not helped. Learn more about Sub-acromial shoulder bursitis.
Hip trochanteric bursitis
This occurs when the trochanteric bursa, located on the outside of the hip near the bony prominence (greater trochanter), becomes inflamed. It causes pain on the outer side of the hip, sometimes radiating down the thigh. It often overlaps with irritation of the gluteal tendons, sometimes called gluteal tendinopathy or trochanteric pain syndrome — umbrella terms for conditions affecting this region.
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection can be an effective treatment. In some cases, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are also considered for chronic tendon involvement. Learn more about Trochanteric pain syndrome and hip bursitis
Pes anserine bursitis
This condition affects the pes anserine bursa, located on the inner side of the knee just below the joint line. Inflammation here can cause pain and swelling on the inner aspect of the knee, particularly when climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
Ultrasound-guided steroid injection can provide relief, especially if physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory medication have not been effective. Learn more about Pes anserine bursitis.
Prepatellar bursitis (Housemaid’s Knee)
The prepatellar bursa lies in front of the kneecap. Repetitive kneeling or direct pressure can lead to fluid build-up and swelling at the front of the knee — a condition sometimes called Housemaid’s knee.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness over the kneecap.Ultrasound-guided aspiration and cortisone injection can reduce inflammation and improve comfort. Learn more about Prepatellar bursitis.
Olecranon bursitis (Elbow tip pain)
The olecranon bursa is found at the back of the elbow, over the point of the olecranon bone.Inflammation here causes swelling and tenderness at the elbow tip. It can result from repetitive pressure, direct trauma, or underlying conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection can reduce swelling and discomfort. Learn more about Olecranon bursitis.
Heel bursitis
There are two bursae around the heel:
Retrocalcaneal bursa – located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone (calcaneum).
Superficial pre-Achilles bursa – located between the skin and the Achilles tendon.
When either becomes inflamed, pain develops at the back of the heel, especially during walking or wearing tight footwear.
Ultrasound-guided steroid injection can be a useful treatment option when conservative care fails. Learn more about Heel bursitis.
Summary
Bursitis can occur in several joints throughout the body, leading to pain and stiffness that limit daily activity.
When symptoms persist despite physiotherapy or medication, ultrasound-guided cortisone injection performed by a consultant musculoskeletal radiologist offers a safe and effective treatment to reduce inflammation and promote recovery.
📍 To discuss your symptoms or arrange an ultrasound-guided injection, visit:
