Bursitis is the swelling and inflammation of a small sac of synovial fluid. These sacs are found over bony prominences where a muscle (usually the muscle’s tendon) could be at risk of high friction or damage. The resultant pain from the increased swelling and pressure inside the bursa is very effective in keeping you from causing further friction, and this pain typically starts long before any damage to the tissues could start.
Under normal conditions, the bursa need not swell up to protect the tendon, but if the tension in the tendon increases beyond the acceptable norm, swelling in the bursa physically pushes the tendon away to avoid friction over the bone. Bursitis is therefore often caused by repetitive motion or excessive pressure by the muscle and may on rare occasion result from a traumatic event. The symptoms may vary from local joint pain and stiffness to a sharp, stabbing pain surrounding the area, and the pain peaks during and after provocative activities, while joint stiffness can be a common symptom in the mornings.
Addressing the underlying cause of the increased risk of friction is ultimately what is needed.
- Surgeons may offer to remove the bursa but this leaves us wondering what would then act as the barrier and the early warning sign to protect the tendon from damage when repeatedly rubbing against the bone? So rather than shooting the messenger…
- We recommend determining why the tendon or muscle is tensioned beyond what the bursa deems safe.
- Home remedies in the interim could alleviate the symptoms and at times, allow for the condition to resolve, but if you do not see a marked improvement within 3 days and an ultimate resolution through use of a home remedy or any formal treatment, we recommend a change in your approach.
The goal with any treatment for bursitis should be to correct the bio-mechanical imbalances which caused the increased tension in the muscle and the initial irritation for the bursa, and unless proven otherwise, our experience says to look at altered joint mobility or altered nerve control for the muscle in question, as the primary suspect.
Your health and wellbeing is deserving of quality care so be sure to discuss any concerns you may have directly with your preferred physiotherapist, so that you can receive the appropriate guidance for your unique situation.