Your GP will usually be able to diagnose bursitis by carrying out a physical examination of the affected body part and asking you some questions. For example, your GP may ask if you have recently fallen on the joint, or if you have a job or hobby that involves repetitive use of the joint.
Fluid sample
If you have the symptoms of a fever – a temperature of 38ºC (100.4ºF) or above – your GP may remove a small sample of fluid from the affected bursa. This will be done using a needle in a procedure known as an aspiration. Afterwards, a dressing will be placed over the area and you'll need to avoid strenuous activity for around two days.
If there's blood in the fluid, it may suggest that you have injured your joint.
The fluid sample will be sent to a laboratory to check for the presence of bacteria, which will indicate that you have a bacterial infection (septic bursitis). The sample may also be checked for crystals, which can develop as a result of conditions such as gout.
Further testing
Further testing is usually only required if your symptoms don't respond to treatment. If this is the case, it will be necessary to rule out other conditions that may be responsible for your symptoms.
Further tests that you may have include:
An MRI scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce a detailed image of the inside of your body.
