Treatments And Technologies We Use To Treat Bursitis
There are many different ways to treat bursitis, and it’s just as well because we don’t all respond to the same stuff.
The ultimate key to successful treatment of bursitis is working with a team who are willing to take a sufficiently flexible approach, and trial a number of different therapies to see what works best on your specific case.
At our clinic, we specialize in Extracorporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for treating bursitis. ESWT delivers shockwaves to the affected area, penetrating up to 3-5 centimeters below the skin’s surface. These shockwaves create microtrauma in the tissue, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and promoting tissue regeneration by promoting growth factors and stem cells mainly Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β).
Additionally, ESWT helps disrupt bursitis calcifications and stimulate neovascularisation, improving blood flow to the affected area. Literally by triggering the growth of new blood vessels. Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of ESWT in reducing pain and improving function in patients with bursitis, making it a preferred treatment option at most good pain management clinics.
Focused Shockwave Therapy is another advanced treatment option for bursitis that delivers shockwaves at a higher intensity and with greater precision. It is like radial shockwave therapy treatment for bursitis but a little more high tech. Focused shockwaves penetrate deep into the tissue, reaching depths of up to 10-15 centimeters below the skin’s surface, where they trigger soft tissue regeneration.
This targeted approach to bursitis treatment promotes collagen production and tissue regeneration, effectively reducing inflammation and breaking down scar tissue in the affected bursa. By targeting the source of pain and dysfunction, Focused Shockwave therapy can provide significant and long-lasting relief for individuals needing bursitis treatment. Studies, including one published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, have demonstrated the efficacy of focused shockwave therapy in improving pain and function in patients with bursitis.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) emerges as a promising treatment for bursitis, offering a non-invasive approach to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with the condition. By utilizing low-intensity lasers, LLLT targets the affected bursa, stimulating tissue repair and reducing inflammation specifically in bursitis-affected areas.
The therapy works by penetrating the skin and activating chromophores in the mitochondria of cells, ultimately leading to increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and enhanced cellular metabolism. This process promotes tissue healing while also modulating inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and prostaglandins, contributing to pain reduction and improved function in bursitis patients. Notably, clinical studies, including research published in reputable medical journals, have demonstrated the effectiveness of LLLT in improving pain and functional outcomes in individuals suffering from bursitis.
Manual release techniques, such as massage, mobilization, and manipulation, are commonly used in the treatment of bursitis to alleviate pain and restore joint function. These techniques work by applying controlled pressure and movement to the affected soft tissues and joints, aiming to release tension, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
By targeting tight or restricted tissues around the affected bursa, manual release techniques help break down adhesions, promote blood flow, and enhance tissue healing. Additionally, manual release techniques may stimulate the nervous system, leading to decreased pain perception and improved muscle function. Clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of manual release techniques in managing bursitis symptoms, making them an integral part of conservative treatment approaches.
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a therapeutic technique that utilizes specially designed tools to detect and treat soft tissue dysfunction. In the context of bursitis, IASTM works by applying controlled pressure and friction to the affected soft tissues, aiming to break down scar tissue, reduce adhesions, and improve tissue mobility.
The use of instruments allows for more precise and targeted treatment of the affected area, leading to improved outcomes in terms of pain relief and functional restoration. Additionally, IASTM may stimulate the body’s natural healing response and promote tissue regeneration by increasing blood flow and promoting the release of growth factors. Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of IASTM in reducing pain and improving function in patients with bursitis.
Dry needling is a highly effective technique for addressing bursitis by targeting trigger points within the affected muscles. Unlike acupuncture, which focuses on meridians and energy flow, dry needling aims to directly address muscular dysfunction and alleviate pain. By inserting thin needles into specific trigger points, dry needling elicits a local twitch response, which helps release tension in the muscles and alleviate pain associated with bursitis.
This targeted approach addresses some of the root causes of bursitis symptoms by reducing muscle tightness, improving joint function, and promoting tissue healing. Clinical research consistently demonstrates the efficacy of dry needling in managing bursitis, providing a valuable avenue for symptom relief and functional improvement.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the comprehensive treatment of bursitis, offering a range of interventions aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing function. One key component of physiotherapy for bursitis is exercise therapy, which involves targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improve joint stability, and restore range of motion.
By addressing muscle imbalances and promoting proper biomechanics, exercise therapy can help alleviate stress on the affected bursa and reduce the risk of further injury.
Furthermore, education and self-management strategies are integral components of physiotherapy for bursitis, empowering patients with knowledge and skills to manage their condition effectively and prevent recurrence of symptoms. By offering a holistic approach that addresses both symptom management and long-term functional improvement, physiotherapy optimizes outcomes for individuals with bursitis.
To alleviate discomfort associated with bursitis, several home remedies and lifestyle adjustments can be adopted. Firstly, it’s crucial to allow the affected area to rest by avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium can help manage pain on a short-term basis.
Additionally, applying ice packs to the affected area for 20 minutes multiple times a day can reduce pain and inflammation. Utilizing a compressive wrap or sleeve may also assist in reducing swelling. Elevating the affected area can help alleviate swelling as well. Furthermore, for individuals carrying excess weight, losing weight can alleviate pressure on the affected joint, contributing to symptom relief. These home remedies and lifestyle adjustments can provide significant relief for individuals managing bursitis.