Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, which are small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between muscles and tendons. When a bursa becomes inflamed, it can lead to bursitis, causing pain and swelling in the affected joint or area. Common causes of bursitis include overuse, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and trauma.
Physio for bursitis helps to reduce pain and help you to regain mobility. Our physiotherapist treatment may include movement tests, positions that compress the bursa, and exercises to improve the range of motion and reduce pain.
There are various reasons why bursitis can develop, such as direct impact on superficial bursa (e.g., elbow, knee), repetitive pressure (e.g., kneeling), and poor biomechanics leading to abnormal load on the joint and bursa.
Injuries are also a frequent cause, with trauma from falls potentially damaging the bursa and leading to joint pain and swelling. Other less common causes include gout or arthritis in the joints, bones exerting pressure on the bursa, and infection.
Bursitis can affect many joints within the body and below are a few common areas and signs.
At our Carrigaline clinic, our physiotherapists here at Head2Toe can assist in treating bursitis by utilising specific movements to apply pressure on the bursa. This technique may alleviate the symptoms. They will also guide you through exercises to enhance joint functionality for bursitis with discomfort, typically involving stretching, strengthening, and retraining movement patterns. Treatment for heel bursitis may involve adjustments in footwear or the use of orthotic inserts for additional arch support.
Physiotherapy can help with bursitis treatment by providing a comprehensive treatment plan that includes strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques to help reduce inflammation and pain. Our physiotherapists are trained to assess the affected area and develop a personalised bursitis program to aid in pain relief and improve function.
When you have bursitis, there are certain things you should avoid doing to prevent further pain and improve your condition. One important thing to avoid is putting too much pressure on the affected area, as this can exacerbate the pain and inflammation. It is also important to avoid activities that worsen the symptoms of bursitis, such as repetitive movements.
There are many exercises that may help with bursitis such as glute stretches, however, when it comes to the treatment of bursitis, physiotherapy is often recommended as an effective treatment option, where our physiotherapist can provide tailored exercise plans depending on your symptoms. A physiotherapist can help in managing the inflammation of the bursa and improving the strength and flexibility of the affected area. Physiotherapy helps in addressing the underlying causes associated with bursitis, leading to a faster recovery and reduced risk of recurrence. If you are experiencing symptoms of bursitis, book an appointment today to discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for individuals affected by bursitis, as it can help improve their range of motion and allow them to get back to living without pain.
Bursitis is caused by inflammation of the bursa, often due to repeated pressure on a specific joint. To help prevent bursitis it is best to carry out things such as: