Lifestyle and home remedies - Bursitis

To take care of your bursitis at home:

Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can provide relief. Use as directed. Consult your doctor if you need NSAIDs for an extended period of time.

Apply ice packs. Use them for 20 minutes several times a day during the first few days, or for as long as the joint area is warm to the touch.

Apply heat. Use heat after the affected joint is no longer warm or red to help relieve muscle and joint pain and stiffness. But don't overdo it. Don't apply heat for more than 20 minutes at a time. Sometimes moist heat seems to penetrate deeper and give you more relief than does dry heat.

Perform stretching exercises. Stretching can help restore full range of motion.

Elevate the affected joint. Raising your knee or elbow can help reduce swelling.

Keep pressure off your joint. If possible, use an elastic bandage, sling or soft foam pad to protect a joint until the swelling goes down.