What is Bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation to one or more of the bursae (small sacs) of synovial fluid in the body. The bursae are lined with a membrane that secretes a lubricating fluid that works to reduce friction in joints such as the elbow. The bursae are located at points in the body where muscles or tendons slide across the bone. There are over 150 bursae in the body. When the bursae are healthy they create a smooth, frictionless surface for painless movement. However, when the bursae are not working properly, bursitis may occur.
Bursitis more commonly affects the superficial bursae. These include the subacromial [shoulder], prepatellar [knee], retrocalcaneal [foot], and pes anserinus bursae [knee].
Diagnosis
Symptoms for bursitis can vary from minor to severe aches and pains, local joint stiffness, to burning that surrounds the whole joint. In some cases swelling occurs and there may be noticeable redness and heat. With this condition, pain usually gets worse during or after activity. After activity in the days following, the joint can become stiff.
Treatment
- Rest with gradual return to activity
- NSAIDS or anti-inflammatory drugs (garlic and ginger are natural forms)
- Ice – to help with chronic swelling and pain in the area of the busitis
- NKT protocol – to help figure out the compensation pattern that is causing one muscle to work too hard
- Adjusting the joint to allow proper motion
- Kinesiotape – to help decompress the area and promote healing
There should be signs of improvement within 4-6 weeks. If there have not been any improvement and you have done all the above then x-ray and advanced imaging are the next options.
If you have tried to rest the area having the bursitis symptoms without success, please visit Peak Wellness and Chiropractic, the family chiropractic. Dr. Megan Reed specializes in treating injuries and chronic problems of athletes and active individuals. Get help from Peak Wellness and Chiropractic so you can get back to doing what you enjoy.