Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition that causes the bursae to become inflamed. This will often need to be treated by protecting the joint from further trauma and keeping the joint rested. Typically bursitis pain will fade after a few weeks if treatment is properly applied, but it is common for those that have suffered from this condition to see flare-ups again in the future.
Symptoms of Bursitis
Bursitis symptoms may affect the shoulder, elbow, knee, hip or Achilles tendon, which are more common in those over the age of 40.
Causes of Bursitis
Repetitive or Continual Motions
In most cases bursitis is caused by constant repetitive motions or pl
acing the joint in a position that continually irritates the area surrounding the joint.
Risk Factors
Home Remedies for Bursitis
During a bursitis flare up you can perform several home remedies that can help ease your discomfort.
1. Get New Shoes
Bursitis in the heels is often caused by poorly fitting shoes. Replacing these with a shoe that fits properly can help to alleviate the discomfort.
2. Change Habits
Seek out activities that appear to aggravate your bursitis and learn ways to reduce this discomfort. Investing in padding for your knees and elbows, resting in a more comfortable position or simply forgoing an activity may be helpful.
3. Apply Ice and Heat
After you have brought down the initial swelling, use a heating pack to increase circulation to remove any excess fluid. An ice pack applied in 20 minute intervals 3-4 times a day while elevating the joint can help to take down swelling.
4. Take Medications
Ibuprofen is particularly helpful in taking down inflammation of the bursae while easing pain. Check with your doctor before taking this medication as it can interact with other prescriptions. If the inflammation in the bursa has been caused by an infection, antibiotics will be necessary to take down the swelling.
5. Begin Moving
As the pain decreases, focus on moving your joint though a full range of motion. Your doctor can provide you with a list of recommended movements depending on the affected joints. Avoid over-reaching and instead opt to use a ladder to help you reach high objects. Crawling your hands up the wall like a spider is an excellent exercise to assist shoulders affected by bursitis.
The following videos provide additional insight regarding causes and management of bursitis:
Bursitis is a condition that causes the bursae to become inflamed. This will often need to be treated by protecting the joint from further trauma and keeping the joint rested. Typically bursitis pain will fade after a few weeks if treatment is properly applied, but it is common for those that have suffered from this condition to see flare-ups again in the future.
Symptoms of Bursitis
Bursitis symptoms may affect the shoulder, elbow, knee, hip or Achilles tendon, which are more common in those over the age of 40.
- Pain, particularly when you move the joint or attempt to press on this area
- Swelling or redness around the affected area
- Stiffness or an ache in the affected area
Causes of Bursitis
Repetitive or Continual Motions
In most cases bursitis is caused by constant repetitive motions or pl
acing the joint in a position that continually irritates the area surrounding the joint.
- Leaning on your elbows for extended periods of time
- Throwing a baseball or similar athletic activity
- Constantly lifting heavy objects up over your head
- Sitting for long periods of time, particularly if you tend to sit on hard surfaces
- Kneeling for long periods of time, such as you would to while installing carpet or cleaning
Risk Factors
- Gardening, carpet laying, painting, tile setting or playing a musical instrument are excellent hobbies and occupations of this risk.
- The chance of developing bursitis becomes increasingly more severe as you age.
- Those that suffer from conditions such as Diabetes, rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout may have an increased risk of developing bursitis as well.
Home Remedies for Bursitis
During a bursitis flare up you can perform several home remedies that can help ease your discomfort.
1. Get New Shoes
Bursitis in the heels is often caused by poorly fitting shoes. Replacing these with a shoe that fits properly can help to alleviate the discomfort.
2. Change Habits
Seek out activities that appear to aggravate your bursitis and learn ways to reduce this discomfort. Investing in padding for your knees and elbows, resting in a more comfortable position or simply forgoing an activity may be helpful.
3. Apply Ice and Heat
After you have brought down the initial swelling, use a heating pack to increase circulation to remove any excess fluid. An ice pack applied in 20 minute intervals 3-4 times a day while elevating the joint can help to take down swelling.
4. Take Medications
Ibuprofen is particularly helpful in taking down inflammation of the bursae while easing pain. Check with your doctor before taking this medication as it can interact with other prescriptions. If the inflammation in the bursa has been caused by an infection, antibiotics will be necessary to take down the swelling.
5. Begin Moving
As the pain decreases, focus on moving your joint though a full range of motion. Your doctor can provide you with a list of recommended movements depending on the affected joints. Avoid over-reaching and instead opt to use a ladder to help you reach high objects. Crawling your hands up the wall like a spider is an excellent exercise to assist shoulders affected by bursitis.
The following videos provide additional insight regarding causes and management of bursitis:
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