WHAT IS BURSITIS?
Bursitis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the bursae, which are small sacs of fluid that cushion the joints. Bursitis can affect any joint, but it is more common in the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Some of the symptoms of bursitis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty in moving the affected joint.
Bursitis can be caused by various factors, such as repetitive movement, excessive pressure, injury, infection, or underlying conditions like arthritis or gout. The treatment of bursitis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Some of the common treatments include rest, ice, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, antibiotics, and aspiration.
HOW CAN CHIROPRACTIC HELP?
Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors use manual techniques to manipulate the joints and soft tissues to restore normal function and reduce pain and inflammation.
Chiropractic adjustments can help bursitis by restoring proper alignment and function of the affected joint, reducing pressure on the bursa and improving blood flow and healing. Chiropractic adjustments can also help prevent bursitis by correcting biomechanical imbalances that may cause excessive friction or stress on the bursae.
Chiropractic care can help with bursitis by addressing the underlying causes of the condition, such as misalignment of the joints, muscle tension, or nerve irritation. Chiropractors use a wide variety of soft tissue modalities to improve blood flow, reduce scar tissue, and promote healing in the affected area. Some of the soft tissue modalities that chiropractors use are:
- Graston technique: This is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that uses stainless steel tools to break up adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles and tendons.
- Cupping therapy: This is a technique that uses suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin and underlying tissues. This helps to increase blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and stimulate healing.
- Manual release therapy: This is a technique that uses manual pressure to release tight muscles and fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles). This helps to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and restore function.
- Manual stretching: This is a technique that uses gentle force to stretch the muscles and tendons around the affected joint. This helps to improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and prevent further injury.
In addition to manual techniques and soft tissue modalities, chiropractors can also prescribe rehab exercises to strengthen the muscles and stabilize the joints. Rehab exercises can help to prevent recurrence of bursitis and improve overall health and wellness. At Move Well Chiropractic & Rehab, patients are prescribed individualized exercises to decrease pain and increase function.
There are other modalities at Move Well Chiropractic & Rehab that are offered to complement treatment plans for bursitis. Some of these modalities are:
- Therapeutic ultrasound: This is a technique that uses sound waves to create heat and vibration in the tissues. This helps to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and stimulate healing.
- Electrical stimulation (e-stim): This is a technique that uses electrical currents to stimulate the nerves and muscles. This helps to reduce pain, relax spasms, and enhance recovery.
- Kinesiotaping: This is a technique that uses elastic adhesive tape to support the muscles and joints, reduce pain and inflammation, and enhance healing.
If you suffer from bursitis, chiropractic care at Move Well Chiropractic & Rehab can help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Dr. Olivia will assess your condition and design a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs and goals. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
