Physical Therapy for Treatment of Bursitis
on Thursday, March 8, 2018
Bursitis is a painful condition wherein the bursa (a sac filled with lubricating fluid, located between bone, muscle, tendons, and skin to decrease rubbing, friction, and irritation) itself becomes inflamed or irritated. Bursitis takes time to develop and can be the result of an injury, overuse, or repetitive movements. Common treatments for bursitis are over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, or in extreme cases corticosteroid injections and possibly even antibiotics if the pain is caused by an infection. That said, arguably the most effective treatment for bursitis is dedicated physical therapy.
A thorough evaluation and physical examination is recommended to identify bursitis, for which a physical therapist is commonly referred to the patient by the primary care physician. Once structural and mechanical causes of the patient’s bursitis are established, a physical therapist can create an individualized treatment program that not only treats pain but also addresses the root cause of the inflamed bursa. Typically, a physical therapist will utilize treatments such as cold/heat, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation, to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Massage, specialized mobilization and taping techniques, and therapeutic stretching/strengthening exercises can also be utilized to restore pain-free function. Patient education is also crucial in eliminating and preventing the return of symptoms.
Renew Physical Therapy is proud to serve Portland area residents suffering from bursitis and joint issues. Renew Physical Therapy utilizes several therapeutic modalities to relieve pain and restore pain-free function.
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