Bursitis

Also indexed as:

Housemaid's Knee

What you need to know

Shoulder joint soreness and swelling may be caused by bursitis, an arthritis-like condition. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may help to stop the pain and improve your range of motion:

• Uncover the cause
• Work with a knowledgeable health professional to find out what is causing your bursitis and to determine effective treatments

These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading the full bursitis article for more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes that may be helpful.

About bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of one or more bursa (fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction around joints).

The most common bursa to become inflamed is in the shoulder. The cause of bursitis is mostly unknown, but trauma or arthritis may be involved.

Product ratings for bursitis

Rating	Nutritional Supplements	Herbs
	Vitamin B12	Boswellia Cayenne Turmeric Willow
See also: Homeopathic Remedies for Bursitis
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

What are the symptoms?

Acute bursitis causes pain, tenderness over the inflamed bursa, and limited range of motion. Chronic bursitis attacks may follow acute bursitis, unusual exercise, or strain. Attacks may last a few days to several weeks and are characterized by pain, swelling, and tenderness.

Vitamins that may be helpful

In a preliminary study, intramuscular injections of vitamin B12^{1, 2} relieved the symptoms of acute subdeltoid (shoulder) bursitis and also decreased the amount of calcification in some cases. This mechanism is not understood. Oral B vitamins are unlikely to have the same effect, since the body's absorption of vitamin B12 is quite limited. A doctor should be consulted regarding B12 or B12/niacin injections.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.

Herbs that may be helpful

While there have been few studies on herbal therapy for bursitis, most practitioners would consider using anti-inflammatory herbs that have proven useful in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. These would include boswellia, turmeric, willow, and topical cayenne ointment.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Refer to the individual herb for information about any side effects or interactions.

1. Klemes IS. Vitamin B12 in acute subdeltoid bursitis. Indust Med Surg 1957;26:290-2.
2. Kellman M. Bursitis: a new chemotherapeutic approach. J Am Osteopathic Assoc 1962;61:896-903.

Last Review: 09-07-2006

Copyright © 2007 Healthnotes, Inc.  All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com

Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.

Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.

The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.