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Bursitis and Other Soft Tissue Diseases
What Is It?
What Causes It?
How Is It Diagnosed?
Treatment Options
Resources and Suggestions
More Information About Bursitis, Tendinitis and Other
Soft Tissue Diseases
Información
en Español
What Is It?
- Bursitis, tendinitis, and other soft tissue diseases such as myofascial syndrome, are
rheumatic diseases that affect the tissues and structures that surround a joint and
produce pain, swelling or inflammation.
- Syndromes are groups of signs and symptoms that occur together.
- Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, the small fluid-filled sac that acts like a
cushion between muscles and tendons, or between muscles and bones.
- Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon, which attaches muscle to bone.
What Causes It?
- Overuse or injury
- Incorrect posture
- Abnormal joint position
- May occur in association with other diseases or conditions
- Occasionally from an infection
- Very often cause is unknown
How Is It Diagnosed?
- Your doctor will take your medical history asking questions such as : When did you first
experience the pain? How intense was it? What makes the pain worse?
- Your doctor will perform a physical exam to find where the pain is and to inspect other
joints. The specific exam depends on which area of the body is affected.
Treatment Options
Many of these conditions go away on their own. The immediate goal is to reduce pain and
inflammation. Treatments may include:
- Rest and splints
- Heat and cold applications
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Surgery
- Medications: NSAIDs, Corticosteroids, Antibiotics
More
Information About Bursitis, Tendinitis and Other Soft Tissue Diseases
Resources and Suggestions
We Also Suggest:
- Consult your physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Your local chapter can provide a listing of physicians who specialize in arthritis-related conditions.
- Learn to manage your condition -- get involved! Exciting events, volunteer activities and programs, such as the Arthritis Self-Help Course, support groups and exercise programs (consult your physician). Use the Chapter Locator to find activities near you.
- Arthritis Today magazine -- Search for more information or visit Your Arthritis Store to subscribe on-line!
- Your Arthritis Store -- books, newsletters, Arthritis Foundation membership, videos and more.
- Arthritis Today Drug Guide
- Alternative and Complementary Therapies
- Arthritis Today Supplement Guide
- Frequently asked questions about arthritis, treatments and coping skills.
- Arthritis in children, teens and young adults. Check out the information for parents and teachers, too!
- How to Care for Yourself
- Remember, you're not alone! Connect with other people on Message Boards.
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