Montana Orthopedics: Treatment: Bursitis
 
Injuries and Conditions: Knee: Bursitis: Treatment Options
 
Overview
The pain and discomfort associated with bursitis can vary widely from patient to patient and depends upon the severity and the chronicity of the condition. Some patients may experience minor soreness while others experience a very severe and debilitating pain. In each case, treatment is essentially the same, although the length of time for recovery will vary according to the severity of the bursitis.
  • Bursitis typically does not require surgery, treatment is generally limited to the use of R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, elevation) physical therapy and the use of anti-inflammatories.
  • Patients who seek treatment and follow therapy instructions can expect a full recovery, sometimes in less than three weeks.
  • More inflamed and severe cases of bursitis may require an aspiration and/or injection of steroid medications of the bursa. Aspiration is a process in which some of the fluid is removed from the bursa with a syringe and needle.
  • Identifying the activities that inflame the bursa, followed by modifying or eliminating the injury producing activities is the most critical step in treating the patient.
     



    • Non-Surgical Treatment: Conservative Treatment of Bursitis

    The pain and discomfort associated with bursitis can vary widely from patient to patient and depends upon the severity and the chronicity of the condition. Some patients may experience minor soreness while others experience a very severe and debilitating pain. In each case, treatment is essentially the same, although the length of time for recovery will vary according to the severity of the bursitis.

  • Bursitis does not require surgery, treatment is typically limited to the use of R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and physical therapy.
  • Patients who seek treatment and follow therapy instructions can expect a full recovery, sometimes in less than three weeks.
  • More inflamed and severe cases of bursitis may require an aspiration and/or injection of steroid medications of the bursa. Aspiration is a process in which some of the fluid is removed from the bursa.
  • Identifying the activities that inflame the bursa, followed by modifying or eliminating the injury producing activities is the most critical step in treating the patient.


    • Non-Surgical Product Considerations
    Knee: Compression Sleeves
     Knee compression sleeves give added support, increasing stability and helping to reduce swelling in an injured knee. Patients that have light sprains may be directed to use a compression sleeve during the early stages of rehabilitation. Other patients that have ongoing knee problems or chronic conditions may be recommended to use a sleeve on a daily basis. These sleeves are less restricting than most other knee supports and can be worn under loose fitting clothing.

    Knee compression sleeves can be used to treat:

  • Light swelling.
  • Light knee strains.
  • Chronic inflammation.
  • Degenerative joint disease.

    • Knee: Support
     A knee support is a sleeve-like support that fits firmly around the knee. The support is used to reinforce the joint during motion and provide compression to aid healing and reduce pain and swelling. Patients suffering from knee strains or inflammation will usually be directed to use a support during daily activities.

    The thin and flexible construction of the support allows for normal movement of the knee and also allows the support to be worn under loose fitting clothing. To prevent harmful pressure to certain structures, the support applies differing compression around the knee. The sides of the joint receive intermittent pressure to help stimulate blood flow while the rear of the support fits relatively loose to prevent constriction of circulation. The kneecap is aided in positioning, but remains free of compression to allow its natural movement.

    Knee supports can be used to treat:

  • Strains
  • Sprains
  • Inflammation
  • Chondromalacia patella

    •
    NSAIDs
     NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
  • Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
  • Pain after injury.
  • Joint pain and arthritis.

    • Surgical Hardware Considerations
    This condition does not require surgical hardware.


     
    Factors in Transplant Source
    This condition does not require the transplant of tissue.

    About the Review Team