Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment for Bursitis

Bursitis is a medical condition involving inflammation of the bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac responsible for lubricating and cushioning pressure points between the bones, tendons, and the muscles near the joints. These bursae serve the function of helping joints move easily. Bursitis is a condition quite common in occurrence but not usually known to lay people. Common symptoms of this condition include a dull pain or stiffness near the affected elbow, knee, shoulder, big toe, or other joints; pain with movement or pressure; and swelling, warmth and redness in the area of the affected bursa. Physical overuse, stress on the joints, and direct trauma are common causes of bursitis. Infection, arthritis, or gout may also cause this condition.

In the majority of individuals affected with bursitis, symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks with adequate treatment and rest; however, symptoms persist in a few individuals due to various aggravating factors such as faulty posture, prolonged and repetitive tasks, vigorous physical activity and sports, and prolonged sitting at jobs. Individuals who have bursitis along with concurrent symptoms of others diseases such as arthritis usually opt for Ayurvedic treatment when they do not get satisfactory relief from conservative management and medication.

It is important to address the issues which may have a direct aggravating effect on bursitis and counsel the affected individual to take steps to remove aggravating factors or reduce their effects. Infection, inflammation, joint swelling and damage need to be treated well along with direct treatment for the bursitis. Ayurvedic medication can promptly reduce symptoms such as pain, stiffness and swelling and bring about considerable relief to the affected individual. Local application of medicated oils and ointments also helps to supplement oral medication and bring about faster relief from the symptoms. Hot fomentation on the affected joint after local application also brings about faster relief from the symptoms.

Affected individuals may need to be advised rest for a few days or a few weeks, if the affected bursa is prone to damage or exposed to repeated irritation as an occupational hazard. This can help to bring about faster remission and an early cure from the condition. Ayurvedic medicines may need to be continued for long periods in order to bring about a complete remission of symptoms and help prevent recurrence, especially in individuals prone to repeated trauma or stress on joints. Graded physical exercise, Yogasanas, and relaxation techniques too can help to bring about earlier relief from symptoms and also assist in preventing recurrence of the condition.

Individuals prone to chronic arthritis and bursitis can also be given Ayurvedic medicines on a long-term basis to improve the strength and tone of joints as well as muscles and tendons. Such treatments help in preventing recurrence of these conditions and can improve physical conditioning as well as physical performance for graded activities. Concurrent treatment with immunomodulatory herbs can also help to improve the overall immune status and stamina of affected individuals. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a definite role to play in the management and treatment of chronic and recurrent bursitis.