Assessment-led remedial massage and soft tissue therapy for bursitis-related pain

Bursitis is often described as an inflammatory condition but in many cases, it is not the primary issue.

Most bursitis develops as a secondary response to repeated pressure, compression, or overload placed on a joint or surrounding tissues over time.
The bursa becomes irritated because the area is being asked to tolerate more load than it comfortably can.

At K-Flow Therapy, bursitis-related pain is approached by understanding why the area became overloaded, rather than focusing on inflammation alone.

Common Areas Where Bursitis Is Suspected

Bursitis-related symptoms are commonly associated with areas such as:

• Shoulder

• Hip (greater trochanter region)

• Knee

• Elbow

Symptoms may include localised pain, tenderness, discomfort with pressure, or pain during certain movements.

Why Bursitis Is Often a Secondary Symptom

In many cases, the bursa itself is reacting to stress rather than being the original source of the problem.

Common contributing factors include:

• Repeated compression or sustained pressure

• Reduced movement or stiffness in surrounding joints

• Overworked or fatigued muscles around the area

• Poor load distribution through the joint

• Prolonged postures or repetitive work

When these factors persist, irritation can develop even though the underlying contributors remain unchanged.

How Bursitis-Related Pain Is Assessed at K-Flow Therapy

Assessment focuses on understanding what may be contributing to irritation in the area.

This may include:

• When symptoms began and how they have progressed

• Movements or positions that aggravate discomfort

• Areas of excessive tension or restriction around the joint

• How load is being managed through the surrounding tissues

This helps guide a safe and appropriate treatment approach within the scope of remedial massage care.

Treatment Approach for Bursitis-Related Pain

Treatment is guided by assessment and symptom response.

Depending on your presentation, sessions may include:

• Remedial massage to reduce excessive muscle tension around the affected area

• Soft tissue techniques to improve tissue mobility and reduce unnecessary compression

• Dry needling, where appropriate, to help calm overactive muscles contributing to irritation

The aim is not to treat the bursa directly, but to reduce the stress placed on the area so symptoms can settle more comfortably.

Imaging, Medical Review, and Scope of Care

As a remedial massage therapist, I do not diagnose medical conditions.

If bursitis or another condition has been suspected, mentioned, or identified through medical assessment or imaging, this information can be helpful in guiding a safe treatment approach.

In cases where symptoms are new, severe, worsening, or unclear, medical review or imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) may be recommended before commencing hands-on treatment.
This helps rule out conditions that fall outside the scope of remedial massage care.

Bringing Imaging Results to Your Appointment

You do not need to bring X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI images themselves to your appointment.

However, if you have had imaging completed, it is very helpful to bring the written report or results summary, as this provides clear clinical information that can inform treatment decisions.

If you’re unsure whether your results are relevant, you’re welcome to mention them during your initial consultation.

Load Management and Recovery

Because bursitis-related pain is often linked to repeated compression or overload, recovery strategies matter.

Where appropriate, I may also provide:

• Advice on reducing sustained pressure on the affected area

• Guidance around modifying activity or work demands

• Practical strategies to manage flare-ups without complete inactivity

When Bursitis-Related Pain Needs Medical Review

Medical review is recommended if you experience:

• Significant or increasing swelling

• Redness, heat, or signs of infection

• Pain that continues to worsen despite reduced load

Not Sure If Bursitis Is the Main Issue?

That’s very common.

Bursitis-related pain often overlaps with shoulder pain, hip pain, knee pain, or postural issues.
An initial consultation allows us to assess what may be contributing to your symptoms and decide the most appropriate next steps.