Bursitis
This condition is inflammation or injury in a bursa – a small fluid-filled sac that protects joints from friction. Too much pressure can cause the inflammation that characterizes bursitis. Bunions, caused by habitually wearing ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the big toe joint, are a common form; housemaid’s knee is another.
Dietary Advice To Avoid Bursitis
Lots of fresh foods rich in antioxidant vitamins (beta-carotene, C and E), and selenium and zinc may help inflammatory disorders. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, oily fish, nuts, eggs and wholegrains. Reduce red meat, alcohol, salty foods and caffeine. Oily fish provide essential fatty acids that can help with joint problems.
Complimentary Natural Remedies For Bursitis
Treatment won’t correct any deformity, but can ease pain and inflammation. Apply an ice pack and a hot towel alternately to the sore part to improve circulation and relieve inflammation.
Homeopathically, Apis mel 6c is good for inflammation when there is burning, stinging pain, Rhus tox 6c for when pain and stiffness are better with continued movement. Take 1 tablet, 3 times daily, until the pain eases.
For a bunion, soak your feet in a bowl of warm water and 6 drops lavender oil or 4 drops German chamomile for 15 minutes a day. Then apply calendula oil to the area.
Don’t massage the swelling – it may increase the inflammation. It is important to stop the repeated action that caused the inflamed bursa or to relieve any pressure, for example, from an ill-fitting shoe.
