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Our Approach To Bursitis Treatment

Our service is for people who want to be truly free from bursitis pain. Preferably without drugs and surgery. This involves bursitis pain treatment that addresses the true causes of bursitis. It also means moving beyond outdated ‘symptom-based’ approaches to pain.

We combine cutting-edge technology, hands-on methods and tailored rehab programs. This enables us to manage everything from fresh bursitis injuries to the most stubborn treatment-resistant cases of bursitis.

We provide transformative healthcare in a welcoming and friendly environment. Genuine care and authentic communication are not bonus features for us; they are healthcare fundamentals.

Biomechanical Analysis

Laser Therapy

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Shockwave Therapy

Fascia Release

Rehabilitation

Custom Orthotics

Gold Standard Bursitis Treatment

Our bursitis treatments aim to relieve your pain as quickly as possible. Using tools and technologies that ease pressure on the bursa, increase blood flow, decrease inflammation & break up surrounding scar tissue.

Once your pain is under control we offer preventative measures like biomechanical analysis to identify and work preventatively on the underlying causes of inflamed bursae. 

Combining specific strength and mobility exercises with tailored ergonomic solutions is the key to preventing recurrence in most cases of bursitis. 

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Book an online consultation and get personalized advice from the comfort of your home. Our licensed practitioners are here to assess your concerns, provide expert diagnosis, and offer treatment recommendations—all through a secure virtual session.

Call or Text

027 508 8083

Email

tobias@severnclinics.co.nz

Bursitis Causes

There are many possible causes of bursitis. Knowing how to accurately diagnose the underlying causes of bursitis can be a tricky job, even for trained professionals. Read our comprehensive guide to the possible causes of bursitis pain.
Read More

Bursitis Treatments

Many people still find it difficult to get effective treatment for their bursitis pain and there is still much debate over the best bursitis treatment. The good news is that with a flexible approach most cases of bursitis are very manageable.
Read More

Bursitis Treatment FAQ

Bursitis, an inflammatory condition of the bursa, arises when the fluid-filled sacs intended to cushion and facilitate smooth movement between tissues become irritated. These bursae, located near major joints like the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees, can be affected by various factors such as injury, disease, or structural abnormalities. Common types of bursitis include: 

  • Retromalleolar tendon bursitis occurs due to various factors such as injury, underlying medical conditions, or wearing shoes with stiff back support. These factors exert additional stress on the lower portion of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the back of the heel.
  • Hip bursitis, or trochanteric bursitis, typically arises from various factors such as injury, repetitive strain, spinal issues, arthritis, or surgical procedures. This condition tends to affect women and individuals in the middle-aged and older population more frequently.
  • Knee bursitis, also known as goosefoot bursitis or Pes Anserine bursitis, affects the bursa between the shin bone and the three tendons of the hamstring muscles on the inner side of the knee. Contributing factors to this type of bursitis include inadequate stretching before physical activity, tight hamstring muscles, excess body weight, arthritis, or misalignment of the knee or lower leg.

Some of the typical symptoms of bursitis, although they can vary from person to person:

  • Pain in the affected area.
  • Localised tenderness.
  • Restricted motion in the joint.
  • Swelling and redness near the skin surface if the bursa is inflamed.
  • Chronic bursitis may entail recurrent pain, swelling, and tenderness episodes, potentially causing muscle weakness and reduced mobility. 

However, bursitis symptoms can sometimes mimic those of other medical issues.

Failure to treat bursitis can result in a variety of adverse complications, these include:

  • Chronic Pain and Swelling: Continuous pain and swelling are common bursitis symptoms. The inflammation in the affected joint can cause discomfort and swelling that hinder movement and limit certain activities. As the pain intensifies, individuals may refrain from using the affected joint, leading to reduced mobility over time.
  • Permanent Joint Damage: Without proper treatment, bursitis can damage the joint. This damage may include cartilage erosion and scar tissue formation, exacerbating the intensity of bursitis symptoms such as pain and stiffness. Consequently, mobility becomes increasingly challenging as the joint’s ability to move freely is compromised, significantly impacting flexibility.
  • Muscle Wasting: Avoiding physical activities and movements that exacerbate joint pain can lead to muscle weakness in the surrounding areas, potentially resulting in muscle atrophy. Therefore, it’s crucial to incorporate low-impact exercises into your routine to maintain activity levels and prevent muscle wasting.
  • Bursitis Infection: In rare circumstances, untreated bursitis can progress to infection, resulting in heightened inflammation and potential damage to the joint. 

There are numerous ways bursitis can be diagnosed here at Severn Clinic. These include: 

  • Physical Examination: During the physical examination, one of our practitioners assesses the affected area for signs of swelling, redness, or warmth. They palpate for any bumps beneath the skin, which could indicate swollen bursae. Using gentle movements, they evaluate the range of motion and check for pain caused by bursitis or tendinitis. You may be requested to stand, walk, or perform specific motions to gauge how symptoms affect mobility.
  • Medical History: During the examination, our practitioners may inquire about your current and previous health status and details about the injury. They might ask when you first experienced discomfort, whether symptoms stemmed from a particular incident, and if they aggravate during specific activities, particularly those involving repetitive motions. Additionally, they may inquire about any past surgeries on the affected body area to gain a comprehensive understanding of your medical history and the context of your symptoms.
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  • MRI/X-Ray: In situations where our physical examination and history gathering do not suffice, advanced imaging like an MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) or X-ray may be requested. 

There are various treatment options for treating bursitis. These include: 

  • HPL Therapy: HPL therapy, also known as High Power Laser Therapy, is a non-invasive treatment modality that utilises focused light energy to penetrate deep into tissues and stimulate healing processes. While limited clinical evidence specifically addresses HPL therapy for bursitis, it has shown promise in treating various musculoskeletal conditions by reducing pain, inflammation, and promoting tissue repair. During HPL therapy sessions, high-intensity laser energy is applied directly to the affected area, targeting the inflamed bursa and surrounding tissues. This stimulation can help improve blood circulation, accelerate the removal of inflammatory mediators, and enhance the production of cellular energy (ATP), which aids in tissue regeneration.
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  • Shockwave Therapy Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment option for bursitis that utilises acoustic waves to stimulate healing in affected tissues. While primarily used for conditions such as tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy has also shown promise in managing bursitis. During a shockwave therapy session, high-energy acoustic waves are directed towards the affected area, penetrating deep into the tissues. These waves create microtrauma within the tissue, stimulating the body’s natural healing response. This process can help reduce pain, inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration.

Resting can alleviate bursitis symptoms, but without addressing the underlying cause, the risk of recurrence remains high. Here are some strategies for reducing bursitis symptoms:

  • Avoid activities or pressure that exacerbate pain.
  • Apply ice or cold packs to affected muscles or joints at the onset of pain. For the first 72 hours, use ice for 10 to 15 minutes every two hours. Afterwards, heat therapy or alternating between heat and ice is considered for continued relief.
  • Engage in daily range-of-motion exercises. If your bursitis affects a joint, gently move the joint through its full range of motion, even during periods of rest, to prevent stiffness. As pain diminishes, incorporate additional exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint.

Arthritis and bursitis impact joint health, albeit in different ways. Bursitis typically arises from short-term causes like overuse or excessive stress on a joint’s bursa, resulting in inflammation. Bursitis generally does not cause lasting damage unless the joint is continually strained. In contrast, arthritis develops gradually as cartilage within a joint deteriorates over time. Arthritis tends to be a chronic condition necessitating lifelong management strategies.

To prevent bursitis, it’s essential to incorporate some of the following practices into your lifestyle:

  • Maintain good posture to reduce strain on your joints.
  • Manage your weight effectively, and consider weight loss if necessary to alleviate excess pressure on your joints.
  • Ensure proper wound care to prevent infections near joints.
  • Avoid repetitive movements and take regular breaks, especially during activities that involve prolonged repetitive motions.
  • Prioritise warming up adequately before engaging in physical exercise or sports activities.
  • Use pads or cushions to support your joints under significant pressure.
  • Steer clear of positions that trigger pain or discomfort.
  • When lifting heavy loads, utilise a dolly or wheeled cart to minimise joint strain, and remember to bend at your knees.
  • Address any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the development of bursitis.

For bursitis management, stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and strengthening exercises are often recommended. Stretching and range-of-motion exercises are crucial as they help alleviate pain and stiffness and improve flexibility in the affected joint. These exercises aim to increase joint mobility and reduce discomfort associated with bursitis. Additionally, strengthening exercises are vital in supporting the affected joint and minimising the risk of recurrence. A tailored exercise program designed by one of our physiotherapists targets the muscles surrounding the affected joint to enhance strength and alleviate pain. By incorporating these exercises into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can effectively manage bursitis symptoms and improve their overall joint function.

Yes, medication is often prescribed for bursitis to alleviate pain and inflammation. Commonly prescribed medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, corticosteroids, and analgesics like paracetamol. NSAIDs help reduce pain and inflammation, while corticosteroids are injected directly into the affected area to provide more targeted relief. Analgesics are pain relievers that can help manage discomfort.

However, these medications may come with potential side effects. NSAIDs can cause stomach upset, ulcers, and kidney problems with long-term use. Corticosteroid injections may lead to pain at the injection site, skin discolouration, or tendon weakening if used excessively. Analgesics like paracetamol can cause liver damage if taken in high doses. It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting any medication regimen for bursitis.

It’s essential to seek medical attention for bursitis symptoms if you experience any of the following:

  • Pain that significantly affects your ability to perform daily tasks.
  • Persistent soreness that does not improve with home remedies within a few days.
  • Recurring episodes of bursitis.
  • Presence of fever. Discoloration, redness, swelling, or warmth in the affected area may indicate inflammation or infection.

Bursitis often stems from repetitive movements like pitching a baseball or lifting heavy objects at work. Prolonged periods in positions that apply pressure to specific body parts, such as kneeling, can also trigger it. While less common, injuries and infections can lead to bursitis as well. Certain groups are more susceptible, including:

  • Athletes
  • Manual Laborers
  • Musicians 

Additionally, individuals with specific health conditions, such as arthritis (especially inflammatory types like gout and psoriatic arthritis), diabetes, and thyroid disorders, face an elevated risk of developing bursitis.

Take A Tour Of Our Wellington Clinic

Our team offers a wide range of treatments, helping you to achieve your recovery goals. 

Our Team

Tobias Hall

DC BSc. Hons. IIst Nat. Dip. NZCA

Kade Christensen

BHSc. (Paramedicine) EMT, CERT. ST

Zabad Michael

DPT (Doctor of Physiotherapy)
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Our Locations

Wellington

Featherston Street Pain Clinic

3/23 Waring Taylor Street

Greytown

Main Street Pain & Injury Care

82 Main Street

Masterton

Jackson Street Pain & Injury Care

1 Jackson Street

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