What Is Bursitis? How Osteopathy Can Help
Bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around joints. It most commonly affects the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees.
Osteopathy offers a gentle and holistic approach to managing bursitis by targeting the root causes and alleviating surrounding musculoskeletal tension.
What is Bursitis?
Bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive motion, pressure, trauma, or underlying joint issues. The result is pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the affected area. Acute bursitis may develop suddenly, while chronic bursitis can persist or recur over time.
Common Symptoms of Bursitis
- Localised joint pain that worsens with movement or pressure
- Swelling or warmth near the joint
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Discomfort when lying on or resting the affected area
How Osteopathy Helps with Bursitis
Osteopathic treatment addresses both the symptoms and contributing factors of bursitis. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to reduce inflammation, release surrounding muscle tension, and improve joint function. By addressing the biomechanical imbalances that place excess stress on bursae, osteopathy supports the body’s natural healing process.
Benefits of Osteopathy for Bursitis
- Reduces local inflammation: Techniques like lymphatic drainage and gentle mobilisation help decrease swelling and promote fluid movement.
- Relieves muscle and tendon tension: By easing surrounding tightness, osteopathy reduces friction and strain on the inflamed bursa.
- Improves joint mobility: Restoring movement patterns lessens compensatory stress that aggravates the condition.
- Supports postural correction: Poor posture often contributes to bursitis—osteopaths assess and correct these imbalances.
- Promotes long-term prevention: Osteopaths offer advice on ergonomics, stretching, and movement strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.
What to Expect in a Treatment Session
After assessing your joint mobility, posture, and overall function, your osteopath will tailor a treatment plan specific to the site and severity of bursitis. Treatment may include soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, muscle energy techniques, and guidance on rest, activity modification, and exercises.
Manage Bursitis Naturally with Osteopathy at Chirn Park Health Group
Bursitis can significantly interfere with daily life and limit mobility; however, osteopathic care offers a safe and effective path to recovery. The experienced Gold Coast osteopaths at Chirn Park Health Group provide personalised treatment to relieve pain, restore joint function, and support long-term prevention and management. Book a consultation today and experience relief through expert, hands-on care.
