Vitamins D, C, and B complex (especially B6 and B12) can help with bursitis by reducing inflammation and supporting joint health, alongside anti-inflammatory supplements like Omega-3s, curcumin (turmeric), and glucosamine/chondroitin. Key is managing inflammation, so focus on nutrient-rich foods and discuss supplements like fish oil, turmeric, or bromelain with a doctor, especially if taking other medications.
Try glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids.
Research has shown that over-the-counter glucosamine supplements may help inflammation in bursitis.
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate bursitis symptoms. Magnesium supplements can reduce muscle cramps and improve joint mobility. Magnesium can be used as a complementary treatment for bursitis relief. Improved joint health is associated with magnesium intake.
Vitamin D For Bursitis
Vitamin D, a fat-soluble nutrient essential for immune function, has notable anti-inflammatory effects. Research consistently shows a correlation between low vitamin D levels and increased inflammation.
The fastest way to cure bursitis involves immediate RICE therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), using over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) for pain, and gentle stretching/strengthening with physical therapy, alongside avoiding aggravating activities, with corticosteroids or antibiotics for infections, though cortisone injections offer rapid relief but might not fix root causes, while surgery is rare.
Doctors may recommend over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce inflammation in the bursa and tendon and relieve pain. These medications are typically recommended for a few weeks while the body heals.
Bursitis is primarily caused by repetitive motions, prolonged pressure on a joint (like kneeling), or sudden injury, leading to inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones and tendons. Infections, poor posture, or underlying conditions like arthritis, gout, or diabetes can also trigger it, increasing inflammation and risk.
Vitamin B12 injections have been shown to relieve symptoms of acute shoulder bursitis and decrease the amount of calcification in some cases.
Capsules of omega-3 fatty acids show some of the best evidence as anti-inflammatories.
Not everybody's bodies react the same to food, but there are some common reactions to particular foods that may exacerbate bursitis symptoms that you should consider:
“These therapies help nourish the inflamed joint tissue and release tension in neighboring joints, which may be compensating for the pain,” she says. “Topically, I have found that castor oil is a wonderful and effective anti-inflammatory treatment when applied to inflamed joints,” adds Dr. Telfair.
Reduces inflammation
Studies suggest people who consistently take in an adequate amount of magnesium are more likely to have less overall inflammation. This helps with both chronic low-level inflammation throughout the body, as well as more acute exercise-induced inflammation as mentioned above.
Several supplements are recommended to help treat bursitis symptoms. These include omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil), turmeric, ginger, bromelain, glucosamine, and chondroitin. These can also be added through dietary changes. Finally, compression is believed to reduce swelling and help with inflammation.
Best Sleeping Positions for Shoulder Bursitis
Back Sleeping – Keeps weight off your shoulder and maintains alignment.
If you have bursitis, to help bring down swelling and pain you can: rest – try not to move the joint too much and avoid activities that put pressure on it.
Since its introduction into the market in 1899, aspirin has veritably proven to be a miracle drug with extensive use for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects and subsequently for its cardioprotective effects.
To get rid of inflammation fast, use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for acute injuries, adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, veggies, and omega-3s while cutting sugar and processed foods, manage stress with relaxation techniques, get quality sleep (7-8 hours), and consider supplements like fish oil or curcumin (turmeric). Gentle movement and staying hydrated with water or green tea also significantly help.
Magnesium for Muscle Relaxation. Magnesium is important for relaxing muscles and reducing pain from bursitis. It helps muscles and joints work right. Getting enough magnesium can help with bursitis recovery.
For hip bursitis, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are helpful. They support joint health and may lower inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, with their anti-inflammatory benefits, can also help.
The Role of Vitamin D
Furthermore, some research suggests that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to an increased risk and severity of osteoarthritis, a common cause of joint pain. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure, diet, or supplementation can be a crucial step in managing joint discomfort.
The condition can also affect bursae, which are small sacs containing a slippery fluid that lubricates the muscles, bones, and tendons that move your joints. Specifically, lupus can cause inflammation of your tendons and bursae to cause tendonitis and bursitis, which can result in joint pain and stiffness.
Hip bursitis is often worse at night, when lying down puts added pressure on the pelvic area. Rising from a chair or from a squat, climbing stairs or walking a long distance can also trigger the pain. Diagnosis begins with a physical exam, and it may also involve imaging tests.
Surgical Treatment for Bursitis
If you're experiencing intractable hip pain, your orthopedic specialist will usually recommend surgery to remove or drain the affected bursa.