There are a range of excellent natural remedies that can help in reducing the symptoms of bursitis such as pain and restricted joint mobility, as well as prevent the recurrent attacks of bursitis.

Some of the natural home remedies are listed below:

Applying hot and cold compress alternatively helps in alleviating the pain

Using . . . → Read More: Treatment for Bursitis]]> Natural treatment for Bursitis

There are a range of excellent natural remedies that can help in reducing the symptoms of bursitis such as pain and restricted joint mobility, as well as prevent the recurrent attacks of bursitis.

Some of the natural home remedies are listed below:

Applying hot and cold compress alternatively helps in alleviating the pain

Using hot and cold packs provides temporary relief from the joint pain and helps the person cope with the pain while the healing process of the bursae takes place.

Intake of citrus fruits helps in the healing process of bursae

Bursitis occurs due to overuse and wear and tear of the joints. Eating fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, lemons, sweet limes and tamarind helps the body to heal the damaged cells, thereby speeding up the recovery. Some naturopaths also advise the intake of papaya in the diet, as papaya has anti inflammatory properties which can help to reduce the symptoms of bursitis.

Avoiding alcohol intake

Bursitis may also occur as an associated symptom of gout and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions are aggravated by excessive consumption of alcohol and after an episode of binge drinking. Hence it is important to avoid binge drinking to prevent attacks of gout and prevent bursitis. In case a person is suffering from bursitis, the alcohol intake may only worsen the existing pain and swelling of the joints.

Gentle exercises such as Tai Chi and Yoga may help in preventing the attacks of bursitis

There are many alternative therapies like yoga, clinical pilates and tai chi. These therapies include stretching and breathing exercises which help in relaxing the body and reducing the body stiffness. They help to strengthen the muscles and regular practicing of these exercises may play a significant role in coping with the pain of bursitis as well as preventing recurrent attacks. They can also help in relieving the chronic joint pain and muscle weakness. These exercises should be taken up after proper consultation with the doctor and must be practiced under the supervision of a qualified instructor.

Gentle water based exercises are also very helpful in the treatment of bursitis as well as other associated joint problems such as osteoarthritis. Water based exercises are low impact exercises. These exercises include water based aerobics and gentle water based sports. They help in relieving the joint pain and strengthen the surrounding structures such as the ligaments and tendons.

Homeopathic Remedies can be used in the treatment of bursitis

There are some excellent homeopathic remedies such as Rhus Toxicodendron, Calcarea Carbonica and Calcarea Phos that can be used in the treatment for bursitis. But these remedies must be taken after proper consultation with the homeopath as well as your health care professional.

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Bursitis can be caused as a result of . . . → Read More: How To Prevent Bursitis]]> Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae. Bursae are specially designed small that are present around the joints and the neighboring structures such as the muscles, ligaments and the tendons. They are cushioning sacs that decrease friction between the joints and assist movement of the tendon over the bony surface.

Bursitis can be caused as a result of a number of factors. But the most common cause of bursitis is overuse of the joints, injury to the joints and associated conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and osteoarthritis. The most common joints affected by this condition are the hip, knee elbow and the shoulder joint. Hip and knee joints are the major weight bearing joints of the body, so they are more likely to be affected. The elbow joint and the shoulder joints are likely to be overused; hence the bursae surrounding these joints are more prone to be inflamed. Any injury to the joint, such as a direct hit to the joint or in case of an accidental trauma to the joint, the bursae may be inflamed causing bursitis. Repetitive movements such as swinging a golf club or kneeling over to sweep the floors, or overuse of the shoulder in case of vacuuming may lead to bursitis. Bursitis can also be caused as a result of arthritis. Arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint. When the inflammation spreads to the surrounding structures such as the bursae the person suffers from bursitis. So, depending on the cause of bursitis, recurrent attacks of bursitis can be prevented.

If bursitis is caused as a result of overuse of the joints, then the symptoms of bursitis disappear once the particular activity is stopped. Research has suggested that athletes or people involved in hard physical labor such as construction workers are more prone to develop bursitis as a result of overuse of the joints. Hence these people should always do warm up exercises and stretching exercises before undertaking any hard physical activity. The stretching and warm up exercises help in better joint mobility and prevent the risk of bursitis.

In order to protect the shoulders from bursitis, one must take periodic breaks from repeated activities such as vacuuming. People involved in professions such as gardening, carpentry or even household chores that require kneeling over in order to perform the tasks, should take repeated breaks and do stretching exercises. This provides the necessary rest to the joints and reduces the risk of bursitis.

Physiotherapists often advise knee exercises and thigh straightening exercises that promote stretching of the muscles and ligaments and thereby help in reducing the frequency of bursitis.

Bursitis of the ankles and the feet can be prevented by wearing comfortable footwear especially while walking and jogging, as it reduces the strain on the joints.

If bursitis occurs as a result of inflammatory conditions of the joints such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, then the underlying cause is treated in order to prevent the recurrent attacks of bursitis.

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Causes of Hip Bursitis

Hip is the major weight bearing joint of the body. So it can be . . . → Read More: Causes of Bursitis]]> The most common joints that are affected by bursitis are hip, knee, elbow and shoulder. The most common cause of bursitis is repetitive joint movements, over use of joints, injuries and other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Causes of Hip Bursitis

Hip is the major weight bearing joint of the body. So it can be affected by bursitis due to repeated pressure and overuse. The most common type of hip bursitis is trochanteric bursitis. The trochanteric bursa may be inflamed by a group of muscles or tendons rubbing over the bursa and causing friction against the thigh bone.

Some of the common causes of hip bursitis are mentioned below:

1. Weak hip muscles

When the hip muscles are weak, it puts a strain on the hip joint. This results in inflammation of the bursae.

2. Unequal length of the leg

People can also get bursitis when the body has to change its balance or movement in order to adapt to differences; for example, if a person has one leg that’s longer than the other, or in cases where one leg is injured, as a result of which the other leg is used to bear the weight of the body which results in over use and over pressure on the other leg.

3. Frequent strenuous exercises such as running and cycling

Bursitis can also be caused in case of strenuous exercises such as bicycling and running that put a strain on the hip joint and there is overuse of the hip joint and the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Hip bursitis can also be caused if the bicycle seat is too high.

4. Other diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Hip bursitis can also occur as a result of other joint disease such as gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis that cause inflammation of the joint and the surrounding structures, including the bursae.

Causes of Knee Bursitis

One of the most common types of knee bursitis is known as prepatellar bursitis. In simple terms, it is known as “housemaid’s knee” .This type of bursitis is common in people who have to kneel on their knees frequently in order to perform household chores such as sweeping the floors or scrubbing and washing floors. It is also common in people who are involved in professions such as carpet layers and gardeners.

Causes of Elbow Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursa surrounding the elbow joint may follow a traumatic accident, such as a fall onto the back of the elbow. People who rest their elbows on hard surfaces may aggravate the condition and make the swelling more prominent.

Causes of Shoulder Bursitis

The most common cause of shoulder bursitis is repetitive movements such as swinging a golf club. It can also be caused by trauma to the shoulder joint or suddenly lifting heavy objects such as heavy grocery bag or heavy weights.

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Symptoms of Hip Bursitis

The most common form of hip bursitis is trochanteric bursitis. Hip is a weight bearing joint of the body. Hence the major cause of hip bursitis is overuse, over pressure and injury to . . . → Read More: Symptoms of Bursitis]]> Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae. Some of the common joints affected by bursitis are hip, knee, shoulder and elbow.

Symptoms of Hip Bursitis

The most common form of hip bursitis is trochanteric bursitis. Hip is a weight bearing joint of the body. Hence the major cause of hip bursitis is overuse, over pressure and injury to the hip joint. The symptoms of hip bursitis may have a gradual onset or they may develop suddenly, as in case of a trauma to the hip. The symptoms of hip bursitis are listed below:

1. One of the most prominent symptoms of trochanteric bursitis is pain occurring over the side of the hip

2. In other cases, the person suffering from hip bursitis may complain of referred pain. Referred pain is the pain that originates in one part of the body and travels to different parts of the body. In this case, the pain originates in the hip and travels down the outside thigh. In severe cases of hip bursitis, the pain may even continue down to the knee

3. Intense pain occurs when the person is sleeping on his side; especially the affected hip. The most common cause of hip bursitis is over pressure on the joint. So when a person sleeps on the affected side, it only increases the pressure on the hip, thereby increasing the intensity of the pain.

4. Pain is aggravated upon getting up from a deep chair or after prolonged sitting in one place, especially while travelling in a car. Sitting puts pressure on the hip joint and the symptoms become worse on prolonged sitting and getting up.

5. Any kind of physical exercise that puts pressure on the hip joint makes the pain worse. The person suffering from this type of bursitis may also complain of severe pain when climbing stairs or walking uphill. The pain in the hip and the gluteus muscles is aggravated when walking, cycling or even standing for long periods of time.

Symptoms of Knee Bursitis

The most common form of knee bursitis is pre-patellar bursitis. It is commonly referred to as “housemaid’s knee”. The common symptoms of knee bursitis are as follows:

1. Swelling over the knee joint
2. Restricted mobility of the knee
3. Pain around the knee joint that is aggravated by kneeling over and motion of the knee
4. Intense pain of the knee that becomes worse at night

In cases of knee bursitis which occur as a result of other conditions such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis, the person may complain of stiffness, pain, swelling and redness of the knee joint

Symptoms of shoulder bursitis

Symptoms of shoulder bursitis include pain and swelling of the shoulder joint. The pain is aggravated by lifting heavy weights and by sudden motion of the arm. The pain may be referred to the arm. The inflammation and swelling strike suddenly over a few hours or days. If caused by injury, bursitis will resolve after a few days or weeks. However, if bursitis is caused by overuse, the inflammation will continue unless the particular activity or movement is stopped.

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There are currently more than 100 different forms of arthritis, which Osteoarthritis is just one of. But, because it is one of . . . → Read More: Osteoarthritis]]> While there is no definitive “cure” for Osteoarthritis, there are ways in which individuals can improve their quality of life and change the discomfort level to one that can be tolerated on a daily basis.

There are currently more than 100 different forms of arthritis, which Osteoarthritis is just one of. But, because it is one of the most common forms many people suffer from it is important to know all the facts associated to be sure that you are not someone that is, or could suffer from Osteoarthritis without clue number one of what to do or how to handle it.

Osteoarthritis, otherwise known as “degenerative joint disease”, is one of the most common forms of arthritis with more than 20 million American sufferers to date.

While most people that suffer from the most severe forms of Osteoarthritis are age 60 or higher, this particular disease begins it’s disabling affects before then. As stated earlier, it is a “degenerative” disease, therefore it’s effects to our bodies happen over a span of a lifetime. However, some people as young as 25 can experience the same pain as someone 65 in age.

The word “Osteoarthritis” is derived from two words standing for joint and inflammation. So it’s easy to see how this disease operates within the human body. If not, let’s delve a little deeper and expand upon the definition.

At each point where are bodies have the ability to bend, or the joints, our bones come together divided by small areas that are made up of cartilage. The cartilage acts as a connection point between our bones providing us with a wider range of motion that would not be possible without it. We could not walk, bend, sit, or twist. We would be pretty much motionless without the ever important cartilage.

As we age, our cartilage becomes weakened since it is in a state of perpetual use day after day. And, the weaker it becomes, the more prone our “meeting place” bones are to begin rubbing as we bend our arms or legs causing more and more pain.

The break down, or “wear-and-tear”, of our cartilage can cause the joint area to change its original shape. When this happens, tiny deposits of bone can form throughout the edges of the joint. These are medically classified as “osteophytes”, but you may know them better as “bone spurs”.

In addition, small bits of cartilage or bone can break off inside the joints that float about often times causing even more damage, and of course more pain.

Wherever we can pivot our bodies, we can develop Osteoarthritis. Hands, knees, hips, and the spine are the most common places this disease occurs. Osteoarthritis only affects the joint areas making it painful when performing many simply, daily tasks such as standing, sitting, shaking hands, or walking. Other forms of arthritis such as rheumatoid (the second most common form of arthritis) or lupus affect areas such as the skin, lungs, eyes, liver, or blood vessels.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease. Meaning, it develops without any specific reason and continues for lengthy time periods spanning years, even a lifetime. There is no known cure for Osteoarthritis, but there are treatment plans that can lessen the severity of its symptoms for sufferers.

And, because Osteoarthritis has been termed “chronic”, the treatment plans may change over the course of time. Some of the available treatments will be outlined further on so you know what can be done to help deal with the every day pain.

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The first step towards treatment of fibromyalgia is the diagnosis. The person suffering from this condition usually presents with a range of symptoms including aching pain and pulling down or . . . → Read More: Treatment for Fibromyalgia]]> Fibromyalgia syndrome is a condition where pain occurs in muscles, tissues joints and ligaments without any obvious tissue damage. The pain is often accompanied by extreme fatigue.

The first step towards treatment of fibromyalgia is the diagnosis. The person suffering from this condition usually presents with a range of symptoms including aching pain and pulling down or worn out sensation in the joints. It is also accompanied by fatigue that is aggravated by hard labor. This may result in sleep disturbances and headaches. Diagnosis is made on the basis of excluding all the other conditions with the help of blood tests, urine tests and ultrasound or other medical procedures. The person usually comes with a history of aching pains and fatigue that is present for three months and longer.

Treatment for fibromyalgia

Educating the patient about his condition

This is the most important aspect of the treatment. Once the patient fully understands his condition and accepts it, then the health care professional can discuss the best line of treatment that is suitable for his lifestyle and medical condition. There are many self-management courses that can teach new skills to help people with fibromyalgia manage their condition.

Gentle low impact exercise regimen

The patient is also taught some gentle exercises such as low impact water based exercises. Tai chi and yoga can also have beneficial effects in this condition. Water aerobics can also help in reducing the intensity of symptoms like joint pains, muscular pains and fatigue. Practicing some stretching exercises regularly can also help in relieving the stiffness of the joints. The person suffering from this syndrome must keep in mind that they need to avoid any hard physical labor and strenuous exercises and these lead to the worsening of the existing symptoms. These people are taught to strike a balance between rest and activity.

Medication used in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome

The cause of fibromyalgia is not yet known. Hence the treatment is mainly targeted at symptom relief. The person may be prescribed pain killers in episodes of intense muscular pain. Medication can also be used in order to relieve symptoms like migraines and headaches. Some people with this syndrome may also have other associated symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome and cystitis. Medicines can be used to treat these symptoms.

Stress management and relaxation techniques

People suffering from fibromyalgia syndrome often show symptoms of anxiety, nervousness and stress that are associated with this condition. As a result they may report sleep disturbances as well. Stress is also known to bring on the onset of fibromyalgia symptoms and worsen the existing symptoms. So the physician may refer these people to a psychotherapist or professional counselors. Alternative therapies like yoga and meditation may also help in relieving the stress and calming the mind thereby resulting in an improved sleep. Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques when practiced regularly are known to have a calming effect on the mind.

Body massage

Massage can be helpful as it helps to relax the muscles.

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Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder. In this disorder the central nervous system of the body changes its . . . → Read More: Symptoms of Fibromyalgia]]> Fibromyalgia is a syndrome in which the affected person complains of muscular and joint pains that may vary in intensity and duration. This is a chronic condition and it is associated with other symptoms like fatigue, nervousness, anxiety and headaches.

Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder. In this disorder the central nervous system of the body changes its response to pain. As a result of this the person’s ability to withstand even the smallest of pain is considerably decreased. This is not something that a person has conscious control over.

The causes of fibromyalgia are not known but experts believe that the onset is triggered by some factors. These factors are events of physical trauma like accidents, emotional stress, bacterial and viral infections or even development of other disorders like hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis. Some of the characteristic symptoms of fibromyalgia are as follows:

• Intense pain in the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments

People suffering from fibromyalgia syndrome complain of intense pain in the joints, muscles and the surrounding structures. This pain can often be described as an aching in the bones. Some people complain of a pulling sensation in the ligaments. People affected by this condition often report a worn down feeling as if the joints are overworked. In some cases burning pain may be present in the joints.

The pain varies in intensity in different individuals. The muscle pain is aggravated by hard physical labor and strenuous exercises. Hence these people need to avoid any extreme exercises.

The symptoms may also be aggravated in case of allergic attacks or acute infections like fever, cough and cold.

• Stiffness of the joints

The pain is often associated with the stiffness of joints. The stiffness is usually worse in the morning just after waking up or when the person just gets out of the bed.

• Extreme fatigue

One of the major symptoms of this syndrome is extreme fatigue. Even minimal physical exertion may lead to extreme fatigue and the person usually has to rest for a while before he can resume his other activities. Hence these people should never undertake hard labor which may lead to aggravation of fatigue.

• Tingling sensation in the arms and legs

Some people suffering from fibromyalgia may report a tingling sensation or numbness in the arms and the legs.

• Anxiety and depression may be associated symptoms

Living with ongoing pain and fatigue can also often lead to secondary problems such as anxiety and depression. These symptoms are aggravated by situations involving emotional stress like divorce, death of a loved one and unemployment.

• Migraines and headaches

People suffering from fibromyalgia may also complain of other problems like migraine and headaches. The intense pain and fatigue may lead to difficulty in falling asleep and difficulty in staying asleep for a long time. This may lead to other complaints like migraines and headaches.

• Other associated symptoms

Some people with this syndrome may also have other associated symptoms such as irritable bowel syndrome and cystitis.

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Osteoarthritis . . . → Read More: Causes of Arthritis]]> Arthritis is defined as inflammation of the joints and the surrounding structures resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness and restricted joint mobility. Arthritis is a medical terminology that is used to encompass numerous medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. There are numerous types of arthritis. The causes of arthritis differ according to the types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis involves wear and tear of the joint cartilage

Osteoarthritis is caused by sports injuries or any physical trauma involving injury to the joints.

Increasing age and obesity are also considered as the common risk factors in the development of osteoarthritis. Obesity puts increasing pressure on the joint cartilage leading to wear and tear of the joint. Osteoarthritis is known to run in families.

Gout is characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood stream

Gout is a type of arthritis in which there are elevated levels of uric acid in the blood stream. The excess amount of uric acid when deposits in the joints it causes swelling and inflammation along with intense pain. What causes gout is yet to be determined. However, certain risk factors like family history and genetic predisposition play an important role in the development of gout. The onset of gout is also triggered by other factors like excessive consumption of purine rich foods such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas. Excessive consumption of alcohol and episodes of binge drinking can also lead to an attack of gout. Other conditions that lead to fluid imbalance in the body like fasting, starvation and dehydration can also trigger the onset of gout.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an auto immune disorder

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of auto immune disorder in which the body cells are attacked by its own immune system and destroyed. The exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis are not yet known. Experts have suggested certain risk factors like genetic factors and environmental factors like bacterial and viral infections may be linked to the onset of this disease.

Psoriatic Arthritis affects people with psoriasis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people who are affected by a skin disease called psoriasis. There is inflammation and swelling of joints in the affected person along with symptoms of psoriasis. Studies have linked this disease to a number of causes like genetic, immune and environmental.

Septic Arthritis is caused due to infection of joint

Septic arthritis is caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. The most common culprits are bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus and haemophilus influenza. It is characterized by purulent inflammation of the joint. People at risk of developing septic arthritis are those who take medications to suppress the immune system, or those indulging in intravenous drug abuse. It is also associated with diabetes and other underlying medical disorders.

Ankylosing Spondylitis may be caused due to genetic involvement

The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not yet known, but studies have suggested that genetic factors may play a role in the development of this disease.

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