Bursitis: Non-Pharmacological Treatment Methods

Bursitis, the inflammation of the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints—can cause significant discomfort and impede daily activities. While pharmacological treatments are common, non-pharmacological methods offer effective alternatives for managing and alleviating bursitis symptoms.

What Does Bursitis Feel like?

Bursitis typically feels like a localized, achy pain near a joint that can range from dull and persistent to sharp and intense, depending on the severity. The affected area may also feel tender to the touch, swollen, and warm, with stiffness or a tight sensation that limits movement. Pain often worsens with activity, such as lifting, kneeling, or walking, and may become more pronounced at night, especially if pressure is placed on the affected joint. In some cases, redness or sharp pain with specific motions might also occur, particularly during flare-ups or severe inflammation.

Rest and Activity Modification

Allowing the affected area to rest is fundamental in managing bursitis. Reducing or modifying activities that exacerbate pain can prevent further irritation. For instance, a case study involving an 80-year-old male with hip arthritis and bursitis demonstrated that activity modification, combined with other treatments, led to symptom improvement.

Physical Therapy

Engaging in physical therapy can strengthen muscles around the affected joint, enhance flexibility, and reduce pain. A systematic review highlighted that exercise therapy effectively alleviates chronic pain conditions, including bursitis, by improving muscle function and joint stability.

Ice and Heat Therapy

Applying ice packs to the inflamed area can reduce swelling and numb pain, especially within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. Subsequently, heat therapy, such as using heating pads or warm baths, can relax muscles and improve blood flow, aiding in recovery. Banner Health recommends alternating between ice and heat to manage bursitis symptoms effectively.

Compression and Elevation

Using compression wraps or braces can help decrease swelling by limiting fluid accumulation in the affected area. Elevating the injured limb above heart level further reduces swelling by promoting fluid drainage. These methods are integral components of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol, commonly advised for bursitis management.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy may provide short-term pain relief for individuals with bursitis. A Cochrane review found that massage therapy could offer temporary alleviation of pain and improvement in function for those with subacute and chronic low back pain, conditions that share similarities with bursitis.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may provide relief for bursitis symptoms, though further research is needed to confirm its efficacy.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. It has been utilized in treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including bursitis, by enhancing blood flow and reducing pain. However, evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, and more research is necessary.

Case Study: Non-Surgical Treatment of Aseptic Olecranon Bursitis

A systematic review examined non-surgical treatments for aseptic olecranon bursitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the elbow’s bursa. The study carried out by Reumatología Clínica found that conservative treatments, such as rest, ice application, and compression, were effective in managing symptoms. The review emphasized the importance of early intervention with non-pharmacological methods to prevent the progression of the condition.

PEMF therapy for Bursitis Treatment

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is an emerging non-pharmacological treatment method that uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation. PEMF therapy works by generating electromagnetic pulses that penetrate deep into tissues, promoting circulation and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes. This treatment is increasingly being used in the management of musculoskeletal conditions, including bursitis.

Several studies have explored the effectiveness of PEMF therapy for reducing pain and inflammation in patients with joint disorders. In one clinical trial, patients with chronic knee pain related to bursitis experienced significant improvements in pain relief and function after undergoing PEMF therapy. The treatment was associated with a 50% reduction in pain scores and increased mobility, without the need for drugs or invasive interventions. Sensonica offers PEMF therapy devices for home use (Vega) and professional application (Vega Pro) that proved to be effective for treating shoulder, hip, elbow and knee bursitides.

Additionally, PEMF therapy has been shown to promote tissue regeneration by enhancing cell metabolism and the production of collagen, which plays a crucial role in repairing damaged tissues. This makes it a particularly valuable option for individuals with chronic or recalcitrant bursitis, where traditional treatments may not offer sufficient relief.

Dr. Alexander R. Patel, a specialist in musculoskeletal medicine, notes: “PEMF therapy has shown promising results in treating conditions like bursitis, especially when patients are looking for a non-invasive alternative to drugs. It can be particularly useful for reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.“

As a non-invasive and generally well-tolerated treatment, PEMF therapy represents a growing interest in holistic approaches to managing bursitis and similar inflammatory conditions. However, as with any therapy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine its suitability for an individual’s specific condition.

Expert Insights

Dr. Shashikiran R, a consultant in orthopaedic surgery, advocates for the RICE protocol in managing bursitis at home. He states, “Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are effective tools to manage bursitis at home.” He also highlights the role of physical therapy in strengthening muscles around the joint to prevent recurrence.

Statistics on Non-Pharmacological Treatments

A study published in JAMA Network Open reported that from 2011 to 2019, the prevalence of outpatient non-pharmacologic treatments surpassed prescription opioid use for managing chronic pain among U.S. adults. This trend underscores a growing preference for non-pharmacological approaches in pain management, including conditions like bursitis.

Conclusion

Non-pharmacological treatments for bursitis, such as rest, physical therapy, ice and heat application, compression, elevation, massage, acupuncture, and ultrasound and PEMF therapy, offer effective alternatives to medication. I hope this article answers your question: How to get rid of bursitis in details. Implementing these methods can alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and prevent recurrence, contributing to improved quality of life for individuals affected by bursitis.