Treatment for Bursitis - Bursitis - Natural Home Remedies

Treatment for bursitis includes applying the R.I.C.E therapy, protecting the area, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

The R.I.C.E. therapy includes:

Resting the affected joint by immobilizing it with a sling, splint or cast,

Ice the affected joint to reduce swelling, and

Compression and Elevation of the affected joint.

It can help to protect bursae close to the skin, such as the ankles and knees, with padding. Additionally, deep-heat therapy (diathermy) can also relieve the discomfort and inflammation of bursitis.

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin or over-the-counter nonsteroidal drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin can often be helpful. If the cause of the bursitis is bacterial, antibiotics will be administered.

If the inflammation does not respond to the R.I.C.E. therapy and medications, surgical drainage (aspiration) of fluid from the bursa and the injection of corticosteroids into the bursa is an alternative treatment. Surgical removal of the bursa is a possibility for chronic bursitis.

With adherence to treatment, bursitis usually subside in seven to 14 days. See your doctor if it does not subside, or if there are other signs of infection such as fever or warmth and redness and severe tenderness around the joint.