Bursitis: A Guide To Physiotherapy
Bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when the bursae (small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles) become inflamed. This inflammation can cause significant pain, tenderness, and restricted movement in the affected joint, most commonly the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee. While rest and medication can help, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the effective management and long-term recovery from bursitis.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Bursitis Treatment
Physiotherapy can be important with bursitis recovery as it addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes. A Physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the specific type of bursitis one might have, its severity, and any contributing factors like poor posture, muscle imbalances, or faulty movement patterns.
What is Bursitis?
The bursae act as shock absorbers, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement between your bones and soft tissues. Repetitive motion, prolonged pressure on a joint, injury, or an underlying condition like arthritis can lead to irritation and inflammation.
Symptoms of bursitis:
Pain or aching around the joint
Swelling and redness
Tenderness to the touch
Pain that increases with movement or pressure
Stiffness in the joint
Here's how physiotherapy helps in the treatment of bursitis:
1. Pain and Inflammation Management
In the initial, acute phase of bursitis, the primary goal is to reduce pain and inflammation.
Ice or Cold Therapy
Taping or Bracing: Kinesiology tape or a brace can provide support to the joint, offloading pressure.
Manual Therapy: Gentle massage or other hands-on techniques can help reduce tension and improve circulation around the affected area.
2. Restoring Range of Motion
As pain subsides, the focus shifts to restoring mobility and flexibility in the joint. Inflammation can cause scar tissue to form and muscles to tighten, limiting your ability to move freely.
Passive Range of Motion Exercises and Hands on Treatment: The Physiotherapist moves the joint for you to improve its mobility without requiring muscle contraction from you.
Active-Assisted Range of Motion: You and the Physiotherapist work together to move the joint.
Active Range of Motion: You perform the movements on your own as your strength and comfort allow.
3. Strengthening and Stabilisation
Weaker muscles around the joint can contribute to bursitis by failing to provide adequate support and leading to increased stress on the bursa. Strengthening exercises are vital for long-term prevention.
Isometric Exercises: Gentle contractions of the muscles without moving the joint.
Resistance Exercises: Using resistance bands, light weights, or your own body weight to build muscle strength.
Proprioception and Balance Training: Exercises that improve your joint's sense of position in space, crucial for preventing re-injury.
4. Addressing Underlying Causes
Simply treating the pain is not enough to prevent future flare-ups. A Physiotherapist will look at the bigger picture. They will assess your posture, gait, and biomechanics to identify and correct any issues that are contributing to the bursitis. This might involve:
Ergonomic Advice: Suggestions for modifying your workspace or daily activities to reduce stress on your joints.
Postural Education: Learning to maintain proper posture to distribute weight and reduce strain.
Correction of Movement Patterns: Teaching you how to perform certain tasks, like lifting or reaching, in a way that protects your joints.
What to Expect from a Physiotherapy Session
Your first appointment will involve a detailed evaluation and assessment. The Physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and daily activities. They will then perform a physical examination to assess your range of motion, strength, and pain levels. Based on this, they will create a personalised treatment plan that may include a combination of in-clinic treatments and a home exercise program.
Conclusion
Bursitis can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but with the right approach, it is highly manageable. Physiotherapy offers a comprehensive, non-invasive path to recovery by not only alleviating your current pain but also equipping you with the knowledge and tools to prevent future episodes. If you are struggling with bursitis, consulting a Physiotherapist is an ideal step towards regaining your mobility and getting back to the activities you love.
