Bursitis occurs when one of your bursae becomes inflamed. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that helps reduce the friction between various tissues, such as the movement of muscle across bone. According to the Arthritis Foundation, people of all ages can develop bursitis, although this musculoskeletal problem is uncommon in people under the age of 20. Certain supplements, such as proteolytic enzymes, may be helpful in treating your bursitis, although you should always clear the use of supplements with your family physician first.
About Bursitis
Numerous conditions or factors may cause bursitis. The Ohio State University Medical Center states that injuries and overuse are the two leading causes of this condition, although infection can also cause bursitis. Other conditions that may be associated with bursitis include tendinitis, arthritis and gout. Commonly experienced symptoms associated with bursitis include pain in your affected area, focal tenderness, swelling, redness and a decreased active range of motion in your affected joint or segment.
Proteolytic Enzymes
Proteolytic enzymes, also known as protein-digesting enzymes, contain a mixture of substances, including chymotrypsin, trypsin, rennin, bromelain, papain and pancreatin. Any enzyme that targets protein and helps to prepare it for absorption is known as a proteolytic enzyme. Proteolytic enzymes can be consumed in supplement form, although they are found in abundance in certain foods, such as pineapple and papaya. Proteolytic enzymes were first used for therapeutic purposes in Germany in the 1960s, notes the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Enzyme Actions
Proteolytic enzymes may be useful in treating numerous musculoskeletal health complaints. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that proteolytic enzymes have long been used in treating bursitis and tendinitis and that they contain a powerful anti-inflammatory substance. Balch recommends taking two tablets two to three times daily between meals to help resolve your bursitis. More scientific research may be needed to validate the use of this supplement in treating your bursitis.
Warning
Bursitis is a commonly experienced musculoskeletal condition that should be managed by a competent health-care practitioner. Bursitis, though often successfully treated using a combination of conventional and alternative measures, may recur. Nutritional supplements such as proteolytic enzymes should always be used with caution. Some supplements may cause unwanted health effects in your body. To better understand the role of nutritional supplements in treating your bursitis, meet with a health-care specialist who has advanced training in clinical nutrition.
References
- Arthritis Foundation: Bursitis
- Ohio State University: Bursitis
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Proteolytic Enzymes
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
