Tendonitis and Bursitis

Tendonitis and Bursitis

Tendonitis and bursitis are common conditions that can cause pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in the affected area. Both conditions involve inflammation of soft tissues in the body, and are often caused by overuse or repetitive stress.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis, also known as tendinitis, is an inflammation of a tendon, which is a thick band of tissue that connects muscles to bones. Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body where there are tendons, but is most commonly seen in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle.

Causes

Tendonitis is typically caused by overuse or repetitive stress on a tendon. This can be due to a number of factors, including:

  • Performing the same motion repeatedly, such as typing or playing a sport
  • Using improper technique or equipment during physical activity
  • Starting a new activity or exercise program too quickly or without proper preparation
  • Age-related wear and tear on the tendons

Symptoms

The symptoms of tendonitis can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury, but typically include:

  • Pain and tenderness in the affected area
  • Stiffness or limited range of motion
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Aching or throbbing pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Diagnosis

To diagnose tendonitis, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination of the affected area and ask about the patient’s symptoms and medical history. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to evaluate the extent of the injury.

Treatment

The treatment for tendonitis typically involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce inflammation and pain. Additional treatments may include:

  • Taking over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Wearing a brace or splint to support the affected area
  • Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons
  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Extracorporeal shockwave therapy, a noninvasive procedure that uses sound waves to stimulate healing
  • Surgery in severe cases where conservative treatments have not been effective

Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction between bones and soft tissues. Bursitis can occur in any joint in the body, but is most commonly seen in the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.

Causes

Like tendonitis, bursitis is often caused by overuse or repetitive stress on a joint. Other factors that may contribute to the development of bursitis include:

  • Trauma or injury to the affected joint
  • Infection of the bursa
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
  • Gout or other metabolic disorders

Symptoms

The symptoms of bursitis can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury, but typically include:

  • Pain and tenderness in the affected joint
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Stiffness or limited range of motion
  • Aching or throbbing pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Diagnosis

To diagnose bursitis, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination of the affected joint and ask about the patient’s symptoms and medical history. In some cases, imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI may be ordered to evaluate the extent of the injury.

Treatment

The treatment for bursitis typically involves a combination of rest, ice