Introduction
An inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) can affect various joints in the body and is caused by overuse, injury or infection. The duration of bursitis depends largely on the cause of the inflammation and whether proper treatment is given. With appropriate therapy, bursitis usually lasts for several weeks, with a significant improvement in pain after just a few days.
How long does bursitis last?
As a rule, bursitis is easy to treat and heals without problems. In the case of an acute inflammation, the disease usually lasts four to six weeks, whereby the duration depends largely on the location and severity of the inflammation. The inflammation of a large or frequently stressed bursa takes several weeks until it is completely healed.
The duration of bursitis also depends on how effective the therapy is. If the bursitis is not treated or the patient does not respond well to treatment, the inflammation can last for several months and become chronic. In such cases, surgical removal of the bursa (bursectomy) must be considered.
What can positively influence the duration of a bursitis?
The duration of an acute bursitis can be positively influenced by sparing. The doctor immobilizes the affected joint by applying a bandage or splint and can also prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac or ibuprofen, which relieve the pain and accelerate healing. In addition to immobilization, the patient can also elevate the joint with the inflamed bursa and thus relieve the pressure on it.
Sport and excessive exercise must be avoided at all costs in order to avoid further unnecessary irritation of the bursa. During the healing process, patients should also avoid long strains, such as walking or standing for long periods. Massages of the inflamed bursa and the surrounding musculature promote blood circulation and reduce swelling, which can also have a positive effect on the duration of bursitis.
However, massages should only be used in cases of inflammation that is not caused by a bacterial infection, as otherwise there is a risk that the inflammatory pathogens will continue to spread throughout the body. The use of cooling ointments, cool packs or ice also leads to accelerated healing of the inflamed bursa. In acute inflammation, it helps to cool the diseased area three to five times a day.
It is important not to place the ice directly on the skin, as the skin can suffer frostbite. It is best to wrap the ice bag in a thin cloth and cool the inflamed bursa for 15 minutes. If the patient observes these points and adheres to the therapy prescribed by the doctor, the pain usually improves after a few days and after six weeks at the latest the bursitis should be completely healed.
