Bursitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of a bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles near a joint. When a bursa becomes irritated and swollen, it leads to localized pain, tenderness, and often limits the movement of the nearby joint. As a non-invasive, conservative care option, chiropractic treatment focuses on addressing the biomechanical and muscular factors contributing to this inflammation. This approach seeks to manage the pain and restore proper function without reliance on medication or surgery.
Understanding Bursitis
The most common sites for bursitis include the shoulder (subacromial bursa), the hip (trochanteric or iliopsoas bursa), the elbow (olecranon bursa), and the knee (prepatellar bursa). The condition most frequently affects joints that perform frequent, repetitive motions or are subjected to prolonged pressure, causing the bursa to become inflamed. This inflammation can be acutely painful and may restrict the movement of the joint, often leading to secondary issues like muscle guarding and stiffness. Primary causes often relate to overuse from activities like throwing a baseball, extensive kneeling, or repetitive overhead lifting, which places undue stress on the sacs. Trauma, poor posture, or underlying conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes can also trigger an inflammatory response in the bursa.
Specific Chiropractic Treatment Methods
A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) employs several in-office techniques focusing on the surrounding joint and soft tissues. These manual and physical therapies reduce irritation and improve the mechanics that strain the inflamed bursa.
Soft tissue techniques are a primary component of treatment, targeting the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the affected joint. Techniques such as Active Release Technique (ART) or instrument-assisted methods, like Graston, are used to break down fibrous adhesions and reduce tension in guarding muscles. This targeted work helps restore flexibility and relieve the excessive pull on the tendons that may be compressing the bursa.
While a DC does not directly adjust the swollen bursa itself, they focus on restoring proper joint function in the adjacent areas. Pain from bursitis often causes altered movement patterns, leading to joint dysfunction or misalignment in the spine or extremities. Gentle joint mobilization and chiropractic adjustments are used to correct these secondary issues, which minimizes biomechanical stress on the bursa and allows the joint to move more smoothly.
Chiropractors also utilize various therapeutic modalities to address the localized inflammation and pain. Therapeutic ultrasound can be applied to the area to increase blood flow and promote tissue healing through high-frequency sound waves. Electrical stimulation (TENS) helps manage pain perception by interfering with nerve signals and may assist in reducing localized swelling. Cold laser therapy may also be used to accelerate cellular repair and reduce inflammation in the acute stage.
Preventing Recurrence and Long-Term Care
After acute inflammation is managed, the focus shifts to long-term care aimed at preventing future episodes of bursitis. This involves modifying daily habits and implementing a tailored exercise regimen.
Chiropractors provide recommendations regarding ergonomics and posture to reduce repetitive strain on vulnerable joints. They may advise on proper seating positions, lifting techniques, or how to position a workstation to avoid prolonged pressure. Addressing these underlying mechanical stressors minimizes the risk of recurrence.
A program of stretching and strengthening exercises is prescribed to support the joint and maintain mobility. Stretching improves the flexibility of surrounding muscles, such as the rotator cuff or hip abductors, reducing tension on the bursa. Strengthening exercises stabilize the joint, ensuring balanced muscle activity through a full range of motion.
The long-term management plan includes guidance on broader lifestyle factors that influence chronic inflammation. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces pressure on weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Dietary advice emphasizes anti-inflammatory food choices to support healing and overall joint health.