Put the Brakes on Bursitis Pain
Sometimes life throws us a curve that can make us put on the brakes and make adjustments. Bursitis is a condition that many athletes have experienced at least once, and it is one of those things that can really slow you down. The pain and swelling caused by inflamed bursa can be very frustrating for people who wish to stay active. Fortunately it is relatively easy to treat, and you can even take some extra preventive measures to avoid dealing with this problem in the first place.
What Is Bursitis?
Bursae are tiny fluid-filled sacs that cushion the space between our tendons, ligaments, muscles, skin, and bones. When these small sacs get inflamed, it can cause a lot of pain and anguish. Generally this condition is caused by overuse or repetitive motion. People who put continuous pressure on their knees and feet are more likely to suffer from this condition than people who are not as active. It can also develop due to a sudden injury, or because your bursae wear down as you age. Because you feel pain or tenderness near the affected area, it might be difficult for you to perform normal physical activities. There may be redness or swelling associated with this condition. If you notice any of these symptoms, come in and let us check out what is wrong.
Preventing Bursitis
This condition cannot always be prevented, but there are some precautions you can take to protect yourself as much as you can. If your job requires you to kneel a lot (laying bricks or working with children) you may wish to invest in some kneepads to take away some of the pressure. Take breaks throughout the day so that you are not stuck in one position for hours upon end. You should also make sure your body is in good shape by maintaining a healthy weight. The extra pounds can put even more stress and strain on already overworked bursae. There are stretches you can do to help strengthen the surrounding muscles of frequently affected areas. Lastly, if you do live an active lifestyle, make sure you always warm your body up properly before jumping into a workout.
How Do I Treat My Painful Bursa?
Bursitis is usually treated with simple, at-home remedies. Of course the most important thing you can do is to rest your body. This means discontinuing the activity that is causing the pain instead of trying to work through it. It will not go away on its own, and instead can lead to a multitude of further problems. At the first sign of discomfort you should alternate heat and cold by applying heating packs and ice at regular intervals. Your doctor may wish to prescribe you medication to help. You can also do physical therapy to not only help with the soreness, but also to build up the strength in your muscles where the inflammation occurs. In more severe cases you may wish to utilize K-laser therapyor even surgery.
Where Do I Go to Get Help?
For more information regarding bursitis call Dr. Mitchell Wachtel, podiatrist North Andover, at (978) 794-8406 to schedule an appointment in any of our Massachusetts offices. We can help with all of your treatment needs, including more information regarding K-laser therapy, so you can move full speed ahead.