The bursae is a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and tendons. This sac may become irritated from overuse or injury, such as when repeatedly throwing a baseball. MayoClinic.com states that bursitis most commonly occurs in middle age and in those who have a hobby or profession that requires repetitive movement or pressure on a particular bursae. Most cases of bursitis pain are treated conservatively.
Rest
Resting the affected bursae is the first step in treatment, according to MayoClinic.com. Athletes should take a few days off from practice or participation if bursitis pain is influencing performance in a particular sport. Additionally, workers should ask the doctor for work restrictions if bursitis pain is preventing the completion of work duties. A patient should take note of motions or positions that affect the inflamed bursae and try to avoid them.
Ice
MayoClinic.com states that applying ice to the affected area may improve pain and reduce swelling. Ice is effective because it causes blood vessels around the bursae to constrict, or shrink, which can reduce swelling. Additionally, ice numbs the area of the affected bursae to help control pain. Ice should be applied to the bursae for 20 minutes, then removed for 20 minutes. This cycle can be repeated as often as possible throughout the day.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications can be used to treat bursitis. Specifically, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can reduce pain and swelling of the affected bursae. These medications should not be used if a patient has a history of heart, kidney or liver problems. Furthermore, he should make an appointment with his doctor to discuss other treatment options if NSAIDs have not provided adequate relief after a few days of treatment. A doctor may then recommend a corticosteroid injection into the bursae to reduce inflammation. MayoClinic.com states that a corticosteroid injection is an effective treatment for bursitis pain.
Physical Therapy
The doctor may recommend physical therapy to treat bursitis, states Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. A physical therapist will teach exercises that will strengthen the muscles around the affected bursae. This will take pressure of the injured bursae sac and allow it to heal. The physical therapist may also teach ways to avoid future bursitis flare-ups.
