Bursitis Compensation Claims

Updated July 2026

Bursitis compensation claims may be made if the condition develops because your employer failed to protect you from avoidable harm. Bursitis is a painful inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs which cushion the joints. It is a common RSI (repetitive strain injury) and tends to affect elbows, shoulders, knees, hips and ankles. So when workplace conditions irritate these sacs, the result may be pain, swelling and reduced mobility. Therefore, if employer negligence caused or contributed to your bursitis, you may be entitled to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.

What Causes Bursitis?

A lot of people who make bursitis claims are those who work continually using the joints in their body to perform their job.

The illness can be caused by an injury or infection exacerbated by repetitive movement. According to the NHS, symptoms may include a dull, achy pain, swelling with the joint being more painful when you move it or press on it.

In some cases, septic bursitis can develop following an infection. Redness and swelling occur and it can cause a high temperature.

Bursitis claims are commonly made by carpet fitters, labourers and mechanics.

What Counts as Employer Negligence in Bursitis Claims

Employer negligence occurs when your employer fails to take reasonable steps to keep you safe at work. For bursitis, negligence typically involves unsafe working practices, poor ergonomics, lack of training, or failure to provide protective equipment.

Employers are legal required under the Health and Safety Act 1974 to keep their employees safe in the workplace environment.

Here are some clear examples of negligence that directly relate to bursae‑related injuries rather than broader RSI conditions.

🔹 Unsafe Manual Handling

If your employer requires you to lift, carry, or move heavy loads without proper technique training or mechanical aids, the repetitive pressure on your shoulders, elbows, or knees can inflame the bursae.

Real example: Warehouse staff repeatedly lifting boxes above shoulder height without trolleys or lifting aids, leading to shoulder bursitis.

🔹 Poor Ergonomic Workstations

Workstations that force awkward postures or repetitive joint pressure can trigger bursitis.

Real example: A technician kneeling on hard flooring for long periods without knee pads develops prepatellar bursitis.

🔹 Failure to Provide Protective Equipment

If your job requires kneeling, leaning, or repetitive joint contact, your employer must provide protective gear.

Real example: A carpet fitter repeatedly kneeling without employer‑provided knee protection develops chronic knee bursitis.

🔹 Ignoring Reported Hazards

If you report pain, unsafe conditions, or faulty equipment and your employer does nothing, they may be liable.

Real example: A mechanic reports a low workbench that forces excessive leaning. The employer ignores it, and the worker develops elbow bursitis.

🔹 Excessive Repetition Without Breaks

Employers must rotate tasks or allow adequate rest when work involves repetitive joint pressure.

Real example: A cleaner repeatedly scrubbing floors without scheduled breaks develops shoulder bursitis.

What Can My Employer do to Prevent Bursitis?

Your employer has a responsibility to do everything possible to protect workers from industrial diseases like bursitis. Employers whose staff are more prone to bursitis may choose to adopt some of the following safety measures to prevent the illness:

• Provision of knee pads for people who need to bend down continually
• Supplying platforms to raise the height for workers who need to stretch above their head continually while carrying out their job
• Ensuring regular breaks are taken
• Providing foam-covered handles for tools and equipment

The consequences of bursitis are often minimal but there are cases when the condition has made a huge impact on your quality of life. If your employer has not adhered to safety regulations then you could be able to make a bursitis claim if you have been affected.

First Steps to Start a Personal Injury Claim for Bursitis

To build a strong bursitis claim, you need clear evidence showing your employer’s negligence and how it exactly caused your condition. The following steps can help you establish that link.

1. Seek Medical Attention

A medical diagnosis is essential. Your GP or specialist should confirm bursitis, its severity, and whether workplace activity contributed to it. Ask for copies of your medical records.

2. Report the Injury to Your Employer

Submit a written report and ensure it is logged in the company accident book. This creates a formal record of your injury which is also crucial evidence.

3. Gather Evidence

Useful evidence to gather includes:

• Photos of unsafe working conditions
• Witness statements
• Training records (or lack of them)
• Work schedules showing repetitive tasks
• Emails reporting hazards
• Employer risk assessments

4. Record Your Symptoms and Limitations

Keep a diary detailing pain level, mobility issues, sleep disruption, and how the injury affects daily life.

5. Check Your Eligibility

Most bursitis claims must be made within three years of the injury or the date you realised work caused it.

6. Speak to a Personal Injury Solicitor

We partner with solicitors specialising in workplace injuries. They can assess your case with an initial, free consultation to see if you have a valid claim, as well as gather evidence and negotiate compensation. They also offer No Win, No Fee agreements which means no upfront costs for you to worry about.

Compensation You May Be Able to Claim

A bursitis claim for compensation can cover several types of damages:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
• Special damages for lost earnings, medical costs, physiotherapy, travel expenses, long term impact and future care

Your solicitor will be able to calculate these based on medical evidence and the impact on your life.

Why Bursitis Claims Are Unique

Unlike broader repetitive strain injuries, bursitis claims focus on specific joint inflammation caused by pressure, friction, or trauma. This makes the evidence more targeted and often easier to link to specific workplace activities. For example:

• Kneeling → knee bursitis
• Leaning on elbows → olecranon bursitis
• Overhead lifting → shoulder bursitis

FAQ: Personal Injury Claims for Bursitis

What is bursitis?

Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae which are small sacs that cushion joints. It causes pain, swelling, and reduced movement.

Can I claim if my bursitis developed gradually?

Yes. Many bursitis cases develop over time due to repetitive workplace pressure. You can still claim if negligence caused the gradual onset.

What if my employer says bursitis is just part of the job?

That does not remove their duty of care. Employers must minimise risks, provide equipment, and ensure safe working practices.

Can I claim if I’m still employed?

Yes. Claims are often handled through insurance, not directly against your employer.

How long does a bursitis claim take?

Most claims take several months, depending on evidence, medical reports, and whether the employer accepts liability.

How We Can Help

We partner with a panel of specialist work injury lawyers who offer a No Win, No Fee option and a free, no-obligation consultation. Speak to our friendly team:

Contact us today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form .

 

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer