Bursitis

Physical Therapy for Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs in your joints, called bursae, become swollen and irritated. Normally, these sacs cushion your bones, muscles, and tendons to help with smooth movements, but when they become inflamed, they can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness.

While bursitis can affect different parts of the body, it most commonly develops in the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees. That is why physical therapy is often a key part of treatment, helping to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups by strengthening and stabilizing the surrounding muscles and joints.

What is Bursitis?

Bursitis occurs when the bursae become irritated or inflamed, typically due to repetitive movements, excessive pressure, or injury. The condition can develop suddenly or progress gradually, often causing symptoms such as localized pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected joint. Early recognition of these symptoms can greatly impact your recovery, allowing you to take the right steps toward effective and efficient healing.

Several factors can trigger or contribute to the development of bursitis, with common triggers including:

  • Repetitive Motion: Activities like running, throwing, or frequent kneeling can strain the bursa, causing inflammation.
  • Overuse: Repeated joint use without rest can lead to overuse injuries, increasing the risk of bursitis.
  • Trauma: Direct impact or injury to a joint can inflame the bursa.
  • Poor Posture: Improper posture can place excessive pressure on joints, leading to bursitis.

When bursitis is left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and joint damage, resulting in repeated flare-ups and a noticeable decline in range of motion. Over time, it may lead to muscle weakness, atrophy, and permanent thickening of the bursa. Untreated bursitis can also lead to altered movement patterns, which places additional strain on other joints and muscles, increasing the risk of secondary injuries as the body tries to compensate for the discomfort.

A first-line treatment refers to the initial treatment for a condition, in the case of bursitis, this often includes a combination of rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) medications. Physical therapy is also commonly recommended as an effective, long-term solution to managing symptoms and preventing recurrences. These physical therapy sessions typically focus on strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing joining stability to alleviate stress on the affected bursae.

When Do You Start Physical Therapy for Bursitis?

When managing bursitis, patients are typically advised to wait until the initial pain and inflammation subside. Early intervention helps prevent stiffness and weakness, enabling patients to regain full mobility faster. Your physical therapist will assess your condition and design a customized treatment plan that aligns with your recovery goals.

How Do Physical Therapists Treat Bursitis?

Physical therapists employ a variety of techniques to treat bursitis, which may include:

  • Manual Therapy: Hands-on methods to relieve muscle tension and improve movement.
  • Stretching and Strengthening: Exercises to improve flexibility and support muscles.
  • Ultrasound Therapy: Heat treatment to boost circulation and healing.
  • Electrical Stimulation: Reduces pain and swelling.
  • Postural Training: Helps correct posture to ease joint stress.
  • Mobility Training: Exercises to improve daily movements and joint stability.

Physical Therapy Treatments for Bursitis

Physical therapy plans are tailored to each individual, with PT specialists focusing on creating a clear and personalized path to recovery. Common treatments include:

  • Strength training to build muscle support around joints.
  • Balance exercises to improve stability and coordination.
  • Range-of-motion exercises to restore flexibility and reduce stiffness.
  • Weight-bearing activities to enhance joint strength and endurance.
  • Ice and heat therapy for pain relief and inflammation control.

The recovery timeline for bursitis will vary depending on the severity of the condition, its location, and how well the patient responds to treatment and rehabilitation. Most patients experience significant improvements within 4-6 weeks of consistent physical therapy. More severe cases may take longer, but progress is often noticeable within the first few sessions.  

When to see a Physical Therapist for Bursitis

If you’re struggling with bursitis and looking for expert care, Evolution Physical Therapy is here to help. With convenient locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, our teams of physical therapy specialists at each location are committed to providing personalized treatment plans that reduce pain, restore mobility, and support long-term recovery.

Want to take your first steps toward bursitis relief today? Please schedule an appointment by calling your nearest Evolution Physical Therapy location or simply fill out our Request an Appointment form to get started now.