What is bursitis?

A bursa is a small sack of fluid that lubricates where tendons move in joints. If the bursa is subjected to repeated trauma then it can become inflamed and swollen causing pain in the wrist. This can affect people who put weight on their hands a lot e.g. cyclists.

Symptoms include

• Pain in the wrist especially when the wrist is bent back and you put your weight on it.
• A small lump or swelling in the top of the wrist.

What can the athlete do about it

• Rest.
• Apply cold therapy if it is acute or painful.
• Wear a heat retainer or support.
• See a sports injury professional.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication.
• Apply ultrasound treatment.
• Aspirate the bursa (stick a needle in and suck out the fluid).

  The injury usually dies down after a week or so if it is left to recover.