1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
