Bursitis Treatment 

Acute bursitis, if not caused by an infection,  is usually treated  with the following:
Rest 

• Temporary immobilization  of the affected joint
• Ice applied  to the painful area 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 

Occasionally, stronger analgesics are needed. Often, a  doctor may inject a local anesthetic  and a corticosteroid directly into the bursa, particularly if  the shoulder  is affected. This treatment frequently provides relief after a few days following  the injection. The injection  may have to be repeated after  a few months. 

People who have severe acute bursitis  are occasionally given  a corticosteroid,  such as prednisone, by mouth for a few days. As  the pain subsides, people can do specific exercises  to increase  the joint's range of motion. 

Chronic bursitis, if not caused by an infection, is treated in  a similar way, although rest  and immobilization are less likely to help. 

Often, physical therapy can help  restore the joint's function. Exercises can help strengthen weakened muscles  and reestablish the joint's full range of motion. 

Infected bursas must be drained,  and appropriate antibiotics, often against Staphylococcus aureus are given. 

Bursitis often recurs if  the cause, such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or chronic overuse, is not treated or corrected.