Those suffering from chronic bursitis understand exactly how debilitating this disease can be. As age and repetitive use injuries take their toll on the body, something has to eventually give. In most cases, what is sacrificed is the individual's quality of life, as once-enjoyed activities become off-limits due to inflammation and pain. However, those who have repeatedly battled bursitis now have an alternative solution available. Electrode treatment on bursitis can provide some measure of relief from the symptoms associated with this frustrating adversary.

What is bursitis?

Bursitis is a disease involving inflammation of the "bursa," which is a sac filled with fluid located between the body's tissues designed to lower levels of friction. There are a combined total of 160 bursa located within the body, with the biggest bursa being found near the largest joints. Bursitis occurs when, through infection or injury, a bursa develops an inflammation.

What are common symptoms of bursitis?

The two major symptoms of bursitis are pain and loss of motion at the affected joint. Localized swelling may also occur. Severe pain can appear relatively quickly, or it may begin with minor symptoms that increase in intensity over time. Accelerated age is a major risk factor for bursitis--younger individuals are far less likely to be diagnosed.

About electrode therapy for bursitis

Electrode therapy has been used with some measure of success in combating bursitis through physical therapy. An electrical current is applied directly to the affected area between 20 to 45 minutes. Through this, the initial acute inflammation stage of bursitis can be drastically shortened.

Additional uses for electrode therapy for bursitis

In addition to alleviating inflammation during the first "acute" stage of bursitis, electrode therapy has been shown to benefit those in the second stage of bursitis. During the second stage, adhesions form in and around the bursa, resulting in reduced range of motion at the joint. However, by using an electrode applied with gradually increasing voltage for 20 to 30 minutes, range of motion can be maintained or restored.

Considerations

The effectiveness of electrode therapy for bursitis depends on how soon one begins treatment after the affliction develops. To illustrate, individuals who began treatment within three to four days were often completely cured in a handful of physical therapy sessions. On the other hand, those who wait longer are likely to progress further into the "chronic" stage of bursitis. Individuals suffering from bursitis should visit their physician as soon as symptoms develop.

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