Bone Marrow Edema

An edema is a buildup of fluid. A bone marrow edema — often referred to as bone marrow lesion — occurs when fluid builds up in the bone marrow. Bone marrow edema is typically a response to an injury such as a fracture or conditions such as osteoarthritis. Bone marrow edema usually resolves itself with rest and physical therapy.

Bone marrow edemas are typically found with an MRI or ultrasound. They can’t be seen on X-rays or CT scans. They’re typically diagnosed when a patient has another condition or pain in or around the bone.

Bone Marrow Edema Treatment

In many cases, the liquid inside your bone will go away with time, therapy, and pain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Typically, the recommended treatment for bone marrow edema is:

• Ice to reduce puffiness
• Rest
• Discharge of the injured area
• Ibuprofen and acetaminophen to reduce pain
• Electrotherapy
• Diamagnetic Pump
• Consumption of Bromelain - a protein digest enzyme, which is one of the most important ingredients of fresh pineapple. Bromelain helps treat various injuries, including bone edema, and is available in pharmacies in capsule form.
• Vitamin K and C can also improve the condition.

Recovery Time

The recovery time of bone marrow edema depends on the severity of the initial injury and on the level of activity in the therapeutic phase.