Homeopathic management of bursitis: Case report

Dr Shivani Sharma

Abstract:
Bursitis, an inflammation of the bursae, leads to significant pain and restricted joint movement. Conventional treatments often involve NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, or rest, which may provide symptomatic relief but not always address the underlying susceptibility. This case report presents the successful management of a chronic bursitis case using individualized homoeopathic therapy, highlighting the holistic and non-invasive approach of homoeopathy in musculoskeletal disorders.

Keywords: Bursitis, Homoeopathy, Individualized treatment, Inflammation, Case report, Bryonia alba

Introduction:
Bursitis is the inflammation of the synovial bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues. It commonly affects joints subjected to frequent motion or pressure, particularly the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Causes include repetitive motion, trauma, infection, or systemic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and restricted motion.

Conventional treatment aims at reducing inflammation and pain, often using NSAIDs, corticosteroids, or physiotherapy. However, relapses and side effects are not uncommon. Homoeopathy, based on the law of similars and individualized treatment, offers a safe and effective alternative in the long-term management of bursitis.

Case Presentation:

Patient Profile: A 45-year-old male presented with complaints of pain and swelling in the right shoulder joint for the past 3 months. The pain was gradually increasing, worse at night and on motion, especially while lifting the arm or doing overhead activities. There was no history of trauma or systemic illness. He had taken painkillers intermittently with temporary relief.

Clinical Findings:

• Local examination showed swelling and tenderness over the subacromial region.
• Movements of the shoulder were painful and restricted.
• No systemic signs of infection or inflammation were present.
• Ultrasound suggested subacromial bursitis with mild effusion.

Diagnosis: Subacromial Bursitis (based on clinical and radiological findings).

Homoeopathic Prescription:

Totality of Symptoms Considered:

• Pain aggravated by slightest motion
• Relief by pressure and rest
• Irritability with pain
• Swelling over the affected area
• Thirst for large quantities of water at long intervals

Selected Remedy: Bryonia alba 200C, one dose daily for 3 days, followed by placebo.

Follow-Up:

• After 1 week: Slight reduction in pain and swelling.
• After 3 weeks: Significant relief in pain, improved range of motion, swelling subsided.
• After 6 weeks: No pain on movement, resumed daily activities without discomfort.

Remedy was stopped and patient advised general care and follow-up.

Discussion:
This case highlights the efficacy of individualized homoeopathic treatment in bursitis. Bryonia alba, chosen on the basis of the patient’s specific modalities and general symptoms, acted curatively. Unlike conventional anti-inflammatory medications, homoeopathy aims at stimulating the body’s innate healing response, addressing the root cause rather than suppressing symptoms.

Several other remedies may be indicated in bursitis, including Rhus toxicodendron, Apis mellifica, Ruta graveolens, and Bellis perennis, depending on the symptom picture.

Conclusion:
Homoeopathy offers a promising and non-invasive approach in the treatment of bursitis. Individualized remedy selection based on totality of symptoms can result in significant therapeutic benefits, as seen in this case. Further studies and clinical trials are recommended to explore the broader applicability of homoeopathy in musculoskeletal inflammatory disorders.

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

Funding: No external funding was received.

Dr. Shivani Sharma BHMS
Email : shivaniisharma560@gmail.com