Bursitis Treatment
Conservative treatment of bursitis is usually effective. The application of heat, rest,
and immobilization of the affected joint area is the first step. A sling can be used for a
shoulder injury; a cane is helpful for hip problems. The patient can take nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofin, and naproxen. They can be
obtained without a prescription and relieve the pain and inflammation. Once the pain
decreases, exercises of the affected area can begin. If the nearby muscles have become
weak because of the disease or prolonged immobility, then exercises to build strength and
improve movement are best. A doctor or physical therapist can prescribe an effective
regimen.
If the bursitis is related to an inflammatory condition like arthritis or gout, then
management of that disease is needed to control the bursitis.
More agressive Bursitis Treatment
When bursitis does not respond to conservative treatment, an injection into the joint
of a long-acting corticosteroid preparation, like prednisone, can bring immediate and
lasting relief. A corticosteroid is a hormonal substance that is the most effective drug
for reducing inflammation. The drug is mixed with a local anesthetic and works on the
joint within five minutes. Usually one injection is all that is needed.
Surgery as a Bursitis Treatment
Surgery to remove the damaged bursa may be performed in extreme cases.
If the bursitis is caused by an infection, then additional treatment is needed. Septic
bursitis is caused by the presence of a pus-forming organism, usually staphylococcus
aureus. This is confirmed by examining a sample of the fluid in the bursa and requires
treatment with antibiotics taken by mouth, injected into a muscle or into a vein
(intravenously). The bursa will also need to be drained by needle two or three times over
the first week of treatment. When a patient has such a serious infection, there may be
underlying causes. There could be undiscovered diabetes, or an inefficient immune system
caused by human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV). |
