5 medication options for bursitis

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as diclofenac, nimesulide and ketoprofen, analgesics, corticosteroids or antibiotics, in some cases, may be recommended by the doctor to treat bursitis.

Bursitis is the inflammation of the synovial sac, or bursa, which is a tissue that acts as a small cushion located inside the joint, to reduce friction between the tendon and the bone.

If bursitis is suspected, it is recommended to consult your general practitioner for an assessment and initiation of the most appropriate treatment, which may also involve physiotherapy and home measures, such as rest and applying ice packs to alleviate symptoms. See more treatment options for bursitis.

Main remedies for bursitis

The main remedies indicated for the treatment of bursitis are:

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), nimesulide (Nisulid) or ketoprofen (Profenid) in the form of tablets, injections or ointments, may be indicated in the treatment of bursitis to relieve pain and swelling.

These anti-inflammatories should be used for the shortest possible time, also avoiding repetitive use, as they can harm the functioning of the kidneys and increase the risk of stomach ulcers, for example.

Therefore, it is important to take anti-inflammatory medications as directed by your doctor and, if the pain persists, consult your doctor again so that he can be advised on how to continue the treatment.

2. Painkillers

Analgesics such as paracetamol may also be initially indicated to treat bursitis, especially in case of pain, and should be used according to the doctor’s instructions.

3. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid medications, such as methylprednisolone and triamcinolone, can be injected into the affected joint to relieve pain and inflammation caused by bursitis and can sometimes be combined with anesthetics such as 1 or 2% lidocaine, to have a greater effect.

Typically, the injection is indicated when bursitis is caused by diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, or is deep in the skin. Furthermore, especially in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the doctor may also recommend the temporary use of oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone (Prelone, Predsim), to help relieve pain.

4. Muscle relaxants

Muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine (Benziflex, Miorex), can also be useful to treat the discomfort caused by bursitis, if there is muscle tension, which makes the pain and discomfort even worse when mobilizing the area.

5. Antibiotics

In cases where there is an infection associated with bursitis, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, which can be taken at home, in pill form, or directly into a vein, in the hospital.

Home Treatment Options

Home treatment for bursitis can be done by applying ice packs to the joint for 15 to 20 minutes, about 4 times a day, for 3 to 5 days, in case of pain and swelling. Additionally, it is also important to avoid using the affected joint to allow it to recover.

Some physiotherapy exercises, such as stretching and proprioception exercises, can also be done at home as long as there is monitoring by an orthopedist or physiotherapist. Check out some shoulder proprioception exercises to do at home.