Bursitis is sometimes caused by faulty position of the joint. Corrective adjustments are helpful, especially in chronic cases.  In acute cases, especially  those caused by repetitive motions and the overuse syndrome chiropractic adjustment can also be effective. Chiropractic care may also include physical therapy, such as ultrasound and electromuscle stimulation. A chiropractor may recommend specific exercises to prevent bursitis in the shoulder from progressing to frozen shoulder syndrome, which can happen.

Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture can help reduce the inflammation and stiffness that accompanies bursitis, and it may promote the drainage of excess fluid. The points targeted vary, depending on whether the pain is located in the hip, knee, or shoulder. Acupressure can be used to alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with bursitis.

Chinese Herbal Therapy
Corydalis Analgesic Tablets might be prescribed to combat bursitis-related pain, and aloe vera can be used as a topical medication. Herb plasters can also be used locally on affected areas.

Willow or meadow sweet are both herbs which contain salicylate, a natural pain reliever that can give relief to bursitis and tendinitis. To prepare the tea, steep 1 teaspoon of either dried herb in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes; strain and drink 3 cups daily. Alternatively, you might try a blend of tinctures of meadowsweet, horsetail, and willow bark. Combine equal amounts of the tinctures and take 1 teaspoon of the blend 3 times daily.

Homeopathy
Your homeopathic practitioner may suggest Ruta graveolens to ease the pain of bursitis.

Hydrotherapy
When pain is acute, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours. After that use alternating hot and cold compresses up to 3 times daily. Caution: Never use a cold compress for longer than 20 minutes at a time as extended exposure to cold can damage skin.