Can Acupuncture Help Bursitis?
Bursitis is a painful inflammatory condition that affects the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. It most commonly occurs in the hip, knee, elbow, and shoulder, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement. While conventional treatments such as rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy are commonly used, acupuncture is increasingly sought as a complementary approach to managing bursitis symptoms.
Understanding Bursitis
Bursitis can develop due to repetitive movements, prolonged pressure, or injury, leading to inflammation of the affected bursae. Common causes include:
- Repetitive strain or overuse, such as prolonged kneeling or lifting.
- Injury or trauma, leading to inflammation and irritation.
- Underlying conditions, such as arthritis or gout
- Infections, although this is less common.
Symptoms of bursitis include:
- Pain and tenderness around the affected joint
- Swelling and warmth in the area
- Reduced mobility and stiffness
How Can Acupuncture Help Bursitis?
Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. In TCM, bursitis is often linked to Qi (energy) stagnation and blood blockages, which lead to inflammation and discomfort.
Acupuncture may help bursitis by:
- Reducing inflammation, alleviating swelling in the affected area
- Stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers
- Improving blood circulation, promoting healing and tissue repair
- Relaxing surrounding muscles, reducing strain on the inflamed bursa.
What Does the Research Say?
Scientific studies have investigated the effects of acupuncture on inflammatory conditions, including bursitis:
- A 2019 systematic review published in Pain Medicine found that acupuncture may help reduce inflammation and pain in musculoskeletal conditions, including bursitis (Zhou et al., 2019).
- Another study in The Journal of Pain Research suggested that acupuncture may modulate inflammatory markers, potentially reducing the severity of bursitis-related pain (Wang et al., 2020).
While more research is needed, acupuncture is considered a safe and complementary treatment that may assist in managing bursitis symptoms.
What to Expect from Acupuncture for Bursitis
At True Health, every bursitis treatment begins with a detailed consultation to assess the patient’s condition. Depending on the severity and duration of bursitis, a customised acupuncture treatment plan may include:
- Acupuncture to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Electroacupuncture, which delivers mild electrical stimulation to enhance treatment effects.
- Cupping therapy or heat therapy to improve circulation and promote healing.
- Lifestyle and movement recommendations to prevent further irritation.
Treatment duration varies based on the severity and chronicity of the condition, but many patients report relief after a series of sessions.
The Takeaway
Acupuncture may be beneficial for individuals suffering from bursitis, helping to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and promote healing. While it is not a replacement for medical care, it may be a valuable complementary therapy for those looking to manage symptoms naturally.
If you are experiencing bursitis and would like to explore acupuncture as part of your treatment plan, our team at True Health is here to help.
