How to Reduce the Pain in Bursitis
Bursitis is the result of inflammation of the bursa. The bursa is the sac filled with fluid that is found on the insides of the joints. The bursa cushions and lubricates the joints and when it becomes inflamed, moving may be painful. Bursitis usually occurs in the hip, elbow, knee or shoulder. Bursitis may cause swelling, pain, stiffness, warmth over the joint, and redness. Bursitis may be caused by overuse, injury, repetitive motion or vigorous activity. Bursitis can also be caused by gout, infection, or rheumatoid arthritis. You need to treat your pain from bursitis, or your pain may become chronic. There are steps you can take to reduce the pain in bursitis.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor appointment
- Anti inflammatory medication
- Steroid injections
- Ice bag
- Heating pad
Instructions
-
-
1
See your doctor. You will need a physical examination to determine the cause of your bursitis. Your doctor will visually inspect your painful joints to look for swelling or redness, and he will feel your joints for increased temperature. Your treatment will depend on what he discovers in your examination. Your doctor may also order x-rays and blood tests.
-
2
Take an over the counter medication. Over the counter anti inflammatory medications are effective in reducing the pain and swelling of bursitis. Do not take these medications if you are taking aspirin or other medications to thin your blood. Ask your doctor about taking anti inflammatory medication.
-
-
3
Ask about steroid injections. Steroid injections are injected directly into the bursa and may reduce your pain and inflammation. These injections may be painful and can cause damage to your tissue, so discuss this option thoroughly with your doctor.
-
4
Apply ice. Ice is effective in relieving pain and minimizing swelling. Apply the ice pack to your painful joints. Keep the ice pack on for 30 minutes every 3-4 hours. Do not put ice directly on your skin because you may injure or freeze your skin.
-
5
Use a heating pad. Heat is effective in soothing pain from inflammation of the bursa sac. Keep the heating pad set on medium and turn it off before going to sleep.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Try a sling. If your bursitis is in your arm, use a sling for support. The sling will keep your arm from moving, and reduce your pain.
If your bursitis is accompanied by severe pain in the joint, increased swelling, fever or chills, call your doctor. You may have an infection in your joint and will need antibiotics.
