Bursitis is a painful joint condition that refers to inflammation of the bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. It is often felt in the elbows and knees but can also cause pain in the shoulders and hips. Dr. Michael Wilson of Kosak Chiropractic in Fairfield, CA, offers chiropractic treatments for many conditions, including bursitis. 

Symptoms that May Indicate Bursitis

A bursa is filled with fluid and is located near a joint, so when you are wondering whether the condition you have is bursitis, you need to keep the location close to a joint in mind. However, these symptoms are worth asking a chiropractor about regardless of what turns out to be causing them.

Swelling is one of the symptoms to look for. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed it creates more fluid, which results in visible swelling. You will be able to see and feel it on the exterior of the skin, especially if it is close to the surface. 

Pain will be obvious when you place any pressure on the area of swelling. It will hurt when it is resting, when it is moved, and most especially, when it is touched. 

Bursitis may also be hot to the touch and may look red. 

Causes of Bursitis

Athletes commonly develop bursitis due to the repetitive motions they use. Many people also develop bursitis from overuse injuries at work. If you spend a lot of time on your knees, as installers or gardeners do, the bursae in your knees can become inflamed. Damage to an elbow from a fall is another common cause. Having an inflammatory disease can also lead to inflammation in the bursa as well as other parts of the body. 

Sometimes bursitis is caused by a bacterial infection or rheumatic condition. However, overuse and injuries can be cared for and possibly prevented through chiropractic care. 

Care for Bursitis

Rest, ice, and discontinuing the activity that is causing the bursitis is the first thing to do. Your chiropractor may use cryotherapy to help bring down the swelling and chiropractic adjustments to make sure the joint is aligned and to help reduce the inflammation. Massage therapy can help to reduce the inflammation and the pain. 

When you are suffering from bursitis in Fairfield, CA, Dr. Wilson of Kosak Chiropractic offers holistic treatments that can provide relief. To schedule an appointment, give the office a call at 707-426-1111.