Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment at Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale

 
 

Understanding Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition affecting the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles around your joints. When bursae become inflamed, bursitis can develop, resulting in pain and stiffness, often disrupting daily activities. At Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale, we offer comprehensive care for bursitis, including prevention, diagnosis, and advanced treatment options tailored to your needs.

Common Causes of Bursitis

Bursitis can develop in any joint with repetitive motion or stress. The most common areas are:

  • Shoulders

  • Elbows

  • Hips

  • Knees

  • Heels

  • Big toe

Frequent causes include:

  • Repetitive Activities: Overhead movements (e.g., throwing, lifting) or repetitive joint pressure (e.g., kneeling, leaning on elbows).

  • Injury: Trauma to a joint can trigger inflammation of the bursae.

  • Inflammatory Conditions: Arthritis or gout can contribute to bursitis, as can certain infections.

Risk Factors

Some people are more prone to developing bursitis. Risk factors include:

  • Age: Bursitis becomes more common with aging as joints undergo wear and tear.

  • Occupations or Hobbies: Repetitive motion or pressure on joints (e.g., gardening, painting, musical instruments) increases risk.

  • Health Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes can elevate your likelihood of developing bursitis.

  • Weight: Extra weight increases stress on joints, especially in the hips and knees.

Symptoms of Bursitis

Signs of bursitis can vary, but typically include:

  • Joint pain and tenderness: Especially when pressing on or moving the affected joint.

  • Stiffness and limited mobility: Often affecting daily tasks.

  • Swelling and redness: Indicating inflammation in the area.

When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you experience intense pain, significant swelling, fever, or sudden joint immobility, contact a healthcare provider to rule out other serious conditions.

Bursitis Treatment Options at Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale

Treatment for bursitis focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and preventing recurrence. At Optimal Wellness Center, we provide a range of treatment options:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Reducing repetitive movement and taking breaks can help the affected bursae recover. Avoiding the aggravating activity often provides relief.

2. Cold Therapy

Applying ice packs helps to minimize swelling and pain, especially during flare-ups. We recommend 15-20 minutes of ice application at regular intervals.

3. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen may help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Consult with your doctor for guidance.

4. Physical Therapy

Targeted exercises strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint stability, reducing strain on the bursae. Our experienced physical therapists in Midvale create personalized plans for your recovery.

5. Massage Therapy

Therapeutic massage can relieve tension in surrounding muscles, improve circulation, and support healing in inflamed areas.

6. Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive therapy reduces inflammation and promotes healing by using acoustic waves to stimulate blood flow and cellular repair in the affected bursa.

7. Steroid Injections

For severe pain, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce inflammation. This option is usually reserved for more persistent cases.

8. Cold Laser Therapy

This innovative, non-invasive approach targets inflammation and promotes faster healing in affected bursae through low-level laser therapy.

Prevention Tips for Bursitis

While not all bursitis cases can be avoided, there are ways to minimize risk:

  • Use Protective Pads: Kneeling pads or cushions reduce knee pressure during activities.

  • Practice Proper Lifting Techniques: Bend your knees when lifting to protect your hip joints.

  • Use Equipment for Heavy Loads: Consider using a cart or dolly instead of carrying heavy loads.

  • Take Regular Breaks: Rest during repetitive activities to reduce strain.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight lessens joint stress.

  • Exercise Regularly: Strengthening muscles can help protect joints from overuse.

Schedule a Bursitis Consultation in Midvale

At Optimal Wellness Center, we understand that bursitis can be disruptive. Our comprehensive care, including advanced bursitis treatment options and preventative education, is designed to help you achieve relief and protect your joints for the long term. Contact us today at 801-568-1598 to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward pain-free movement.

Whether you’re struggling with bursitis symptoms or seeking effective bursitis treatment in Midvale, Optimal Wellness Center is here to help. We’re committed to providing personalized, high-quality care to support your health and well-being.

 

Knee Anatomy and Physiology