How Long Does Bursitis Take To Heal? An Expert Guide

Home » Blogs from Crist Chiropractic » How Long Does Bursitis Take To Heal? An Expert Guide

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between tissues like bones, tendons, and muscles. Common sites of bursitis include the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. 

Understanding the healing timeline for bursitis can help you manage expectations and plan your recovery effectively.

This article will explore the symptoms, factors influencing healing time, and the role of chiropractic care in managing bursitis.

Symptoms of Bursitis

Bursitis symptoms can vary depending on its location but often include:

  • Pain and swelling at the affected joint
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion
  • Tenderness directly over the inflamed bursa

These symptoms can disrupt daily activities, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential.

How Long Does Bursitis Take To Go Away?

The time it takes for bursitis to heal depends on factors like its location, severity, underlying cause, and treatment. Here’s a breakdown:

Location of Bursitis

  • Shoulder bursitis: Recovery ranges from 2 weeks to 6 months.
  • Hip bursitis: Healing typically takes 2 weeks to 3 months.
  • Knee bursitis: Usually resolves within 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Elbow bursitis: Often heals in 2 to 4 weeks.

Severity

  • Mild cases: May heal within 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Moderate cases: Recovery can take 2 to 3 months.
  • Severe cases: Could require over 6 months to heal fully.

Underlying Cause

  • Traumatic injury: Healing may be quicker if no other damage is involved.
  • Overuse injuries: Rest is crucial for recovery, potentially prolonging healing time if not adequately addressed.

Treatment Followed

  • With proper treatment: Recovery is faster and more complete.
  • Without treatment: Bursitis may become chronic and difficult to resolve.

Can A Chiropractor Help With Bursitis?

Yes, chiropractors can play a significant role in bursitis management by addressing the underlying issues contributing to the condition. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach to pain relief and healing.

1. Restoring Biomechanics and Joint Function

  • Joint adjustments: Gentle manipulations improve restricted motion caused by bursitis.
  • Posture and ergonomic advice: Helps prevent overuse injuries that can lead to bursitis.

2. Relieving Muscle Tension and Facilitating Healing

  • Massage therapy: Reduces mechanical pressure on the bursa.
  • Trigger point therapy: Stimulates tissue regeneration and encourages an anti-inflammatory response.

Conclusion

With appropriate treatment and care, most cases of bursitis resolve within 1 to 6 months. 

Chiropractic care can accelerate healing and prevent recurrence by addressing the condition’s root causes and optimizing joint function.

If you’re struggling with bursitis, don’t let the pain hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Crist Chiropractic to discover how chiropractic care can help you achieve faster and more effective relief.

FAQs

1. What is the fastest way to cure bursitis?

Rest, ice, and professional treatment such as chiropractic care are the best ways to reduce inflammation and support healing.

2. Does bursitis ever go away on its own?

Mild cases may resolve with rest, but untreated bursitis can become chronic.

3. What flares up bursitis?

Overuse, repetitive movements, and poor posture are common triggers.

4. What kind of doctor treats bursitis?

Orthopedic specialists and chiropractors are commonly consulted for bursitis management.

Posted in
About the Author
Dr. Jason Crist founded Crist Chiropractic in Franklin, Tennessee, with a vision to provide health and healing naturally. His personal journey of avoiding surgery ignited his passion for non-invasive care, earning him "Chiropractor of the Year" for his holistic approach.

Top Whiplash Exercises To Avoid & What To Do Instead

By Dr. Jason Crist | January 7, 2025

Introduction Whiplash injuries, often caused by car accidents, sports collisions, or sudden falls, involve a rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, affecting muscles, ligaments, and sometimes nerves.  Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and restricted movement. While exercise plays a role in whiplash recovery, improper exercises can aggravate symptoms, slow healing, or cause further…

Read More

Nerve Pain in Back of Heel: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

By Dr. Jason Crist | November 12, 2024

Introduction Nerve pain in the back of the heel is a unique type of discomfort that can make even the simplest tasks challenging.  Known for its sharp, electric-like pain, nerve pain in the heel can range from mild to intense. This type of pain often affects walking, standing, and other daily activities, resulting in altered…

Read More

Recommended for You

Top Whiplash Exercises To Avoid & What To Do Instead

January 7, 2025

Introduction Whiplash injuries, often caused by car accidents, sports collisions, or sudden falls, involve a rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, affecting muscles, ligaments, and sometimes nerves.  Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and restricted movement. While exercise plays a role in whiplash recovery, improper exercises can aggravate symptoms, slow healing, or cause further…

Read More

Nerve Pain in Back of Heel: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

November 12, 2024

Introduction Nerve pain in the back of the heel is a unique type of discomfort that can make even the simplest tasks challenging.  Known for its sharp, electric-like pain, nerve pain in the heel can range from mild to intense. This type of pain often affects walking, standing, and other daily activities, resulting in altered…

Read More

Differences Between Neck Sprain vs. Strain: A Must-Read

November 7, 2024

Introduction:  Many people confuse neck sprains and strains. Yet, understanding the differences between them is crucial for effective treatment. Both conditions are common, but each impacts the neck differently, leading to unique recovery paths.  In this guide, we’ll explore what sets neck sprains apart from strains, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, and how chiropractic…

Read More
Crist Chiropractic & Wellness exists to help as many people as possible achieve optimal health through natural and holistic means. Our team is committed to restoring the body’s ability to express its true health potential. We strive to serve our patients and our community with a spirit of complete caring, by radiating health and promoting well-being.

Goodbye Back Pain. Hello Pain Relief!
Crist Chiropractic of Cool Springs Helps You Live Better Now