Bursitis Bursitis is an inflammation of a fluid-filled sac which the body situates in places where movement would otherwise cause friction. The most common bursa to become inflamed is in the shoulder. The cause of bursitis is mostly unknown, but trauma or arthritis may be involved.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful: Intramuscular or subcutaneous injections of vitamin B121 or the combination of B12 and B3 in niacin form2 have not only relieved symptoms but have also decreased calcifications in chronically inflamed bursae. The mechanism is not understood. Oral B vitamins are unlikely to have the same effect, since absorption of vitamin B12 is quite limited. A nutritionally oriented doctor should be consulted regarding B12 or B12/niacin injections.
Are there any side effects or interactions? (Refer to the individual supplement for complete information.) Vitamin B3 as niacin, at intakes as low as 50-100 mg, can cause flushing, headache, and stomachache in some people. The niacinamide form does not cause these side effects. Vitamin B12 is not associated with the side effects of vitamin B3.
Herbs that may be helpful: While there have been few studies on herbal therapy for bursitis, most practitioners of natural medicine would consider using anti-inflammatory herbs that have proven useful in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. These would include boswellia, turmeric, white willow, and topical cayenne ointment. Refer to rheumatoid arthritis for specific recommendations for these herbs.
Are there any side effects or interactions? (Refer to the individual herb for complete information.) Boswellia is generally safe when used as directed. Rare side effects can include diarrhea, skin rash, and nausea. Turmeric is extremely safe. It has been used in large quantities as a food with no adverse reactions. However, persons with symptoms from gallstones should avoid turmeric.
Long-term use of willow is not advisable, as it may cause some of the same problems that aspirin does—primarily stomach ulcers. However, willow is much safer than aspirin. As is the case with aspirin, willow should not be used to lower fevers in children. People who are allergic to aspirin should avoid white willow.
Besides causing a mild burning for the first few applications (or severe burning if accidentally placed in sensitive areas, such as the eyes), there are no side effects from use of cayenne. As with anything applied to the skin, some people may have an allergic reaction, so the first application should be to a very small area of skin.
Checklist for Bursitis
Nutritional Supplements
Herbs
Vitamin B12 Boswellia Rhus toxicodendron 6c Ruta graveolens 6c
Belladonna 6c
Arnica 6c
References:
1. Klemes IS. Vitamin B12 in acute subdeltoid bursitis. Indust Med Surg 1957;26:290-2.
2. Kellman M. Bursitis: a new chemotherapeutic approach. J Am Osteopathic Assoc 1962;61:896-903.
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It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.