Complementary and Alternative Therapies - Bursitis

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be helpful in reducing swelling and inflammation, and especially in relieving pain.

Chiropractic

Although no well-designed trials have evaluated the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment for bursitis, chiropractors commonly treat people with this condition and report that some experience improvements in symptoms, including reduced pain and increased range of motion. Chiropractors are also likely to use other treatments in addition to spine and joint manipulation (such as ice massage and ultrasound therapy) for the treatment of bursitis

Massage

You should not use massage if your bursitis is caused by an infection. Otherwise, massage (especially myofascial release therapy) can be used for general relaxation and to reduce discomfort from inflammation and from compensating for a sore joint.

Following Up

Tell your health care provider if your symptoms are not relieved by your treatment. Be sure to follow your provider's instructions for resting the joint to allow the swelling to subside before returning to your usual routines. You can help prevent bursitis from recurring by avoiding repetitive motions, resting between periods of intense activity, and doing stretching exercises before starting an activity.