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Bursitis/Tendonitis

Suggested Physical therapy procedures:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

• Cold application (ice pack, massage or cool whirlpool).
• Heat application when swelling has decreased (hot pack or whirlpool).
• Ultrasound to produce a deep heating effect, to improve circulation and facilitate removal of by-products of inflammation and thereby reduce pain.
• Massage to reduce swelling and associated muscle spasm.
• Deep friction which applies a transverse pressure over the involved tendon. This initially may cause some increased discomfort, but subsequently spasm is reduced.
• Manual therapy to reduce pain and swelling and maintain joint mobility.
• Active exercise to maintain or improve movement.
• Patient education.
• In some chronic cases of tendonitis, immobilization or support by bracing or taping may be necessary.