Bursitis is characterized by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that help to cushion the joints. When this sac, know as bursa, becomes inflamed, movement becomes painful and you may also experience stiffness in the affected joint. Bursitis is caused by repetitive movement or strenuous activity and usually goes away by itself without any treatment. However, if you repeatedly experience bouts of bursitis, your doctor may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as diclofenac or corticosteroids. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that bromelain may also help to reduce pain and inflammation. Talk to your doctor before using it as it may cause side effects and interact with other medicines.
Properties
Bromelain is an enzyme derived from the stem of pineapple, and according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, it has a number of medical applications. It reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2 and and may help to reduce knee pain and arthritis.
Efficacy
Studies examining the role of bromelain in the treatment of bursitis are lacking. However, an article published in a German medical journal in 1999 notes that proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain have anti-inflammatory and edema-reducing properties and may even be as effective as the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, diclofenac, in reducing rheumatic pain.
Use
Pineapple products are available as tinctures or in capsules or tablets. You can also obtain bromelain by eating fresh pineapple. UMMC recommends taking 250 mg of bromelain twice daily to reduce inflammation. However, Drugs.com notes that the usual dose of bromelain is 40 mg taken three or four times daily. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate dose and treatment schedule for you.
Side Effects
Drugs.com notes that bromelain has very low toxicity. However, it may cause an allergic skin reaction in some people. Other side effects may include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Eating large amounts of pineapple fruit as a means of obtaining bromelain may cause angular stomatitis.
Contraindications
Do not use bromelain if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as its effects on lactation and pregnancy are unknown. Bromelain should not be used alongside the antibiotics tetracycline and amoxicillin as it may heighten their effects. Do not use bromelain if you are taking anticoagulants or if you have a bleeding disorder, as it may inhibit blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements to treat bursitis.
