Tendonitis vs. Bursitis

When joint pain hits, it’s not always easy to tell what’s causing it. Two of the most common culprits are tendonitis and bursitis, which can feel similar, but actually affect different parts of the body. 

Our licensed pain specialists explain each condition, its causes, and how pain management services can help you find relief. 

What Is Tendonitis?

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon (the thick cord that connects muscle to bone). This kind of pain shows up in areas that get a lot of use, like your shoulders, elbows, knees, or wrists. It tends to develop from the same motion repeatedly over time, so athletes and people with physically demanding jobs deal with it the most. 

When you have tendonitis, the pain usually comes on gradually. You might notice a dull ache or a sharp pain near a joint, especially when you try to move it. The area might feel swollen or warm to the touch, and you may find it harder to move the joint as easily as you used to. 

What Causes Tendonitis?

Tendonitis can be triggered by anything from a sudden injury to underlying conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Age also plays a role since your tendons naturally lose flexibility over time, which then makes you more prone to injury.

What Is Bursitis?

Bursitis means inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that helps cushion the joints. Bursae are responsible for reducing friction between the bones, tendons, and muscles, and they’re located near all the major joints, such as the shoulders, hips, knees, and elbows. 

When a bursa gets irritated, it can swell and become uncomfortable, which could make it difficult to move the joint without discomfort. Bursitis pain is more localized than tendonitis and is typically concentrated over the affected bursa. The area will likely look red and feel warm, and in more serious cases, you may struggle to move the joint at all (reaching behind your back, kneeling down, etc.).

What Causes Bursitis?

Bursitis is usually caused by repetitive actions, such as lifting or kneeling for extended periods of time. It can also result from a sudden blow to a joint, or medical conditions like arthritis, gout, or certain infections. 

What Is the Difference Between Tendonitis and Bursitis?

While both conditions involve inflammation and cause joint pain, the main difference is the area that becomes inflamed. Tendonitis affects the tendon, while bursitis is exclusive to the bursa.  

As mentioned above, bursitis is centered over an area, like the tip of your shoulder or elbow, and it might hurt even when you’re just resting. Tendonitis tends to only flare up with specific movements, such as swinging a racket or lifting a bag. 

Another difference is how long the pain lasts. Tendonitis is likely to persist if the repetitive motion continues, while acute bursitis can sometimes go away with just rest. That said, both can become chronic if they’re not properly treated. 

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or swelling in one of your joints, your doctor or pain specialist will likely perform a physical exam to try to pinpoint the issue. They may also order imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. In some cases, if your physician suspects bursitis, they may take a small sample of fluid from the bursa to check for infection.

Treatment Options

Treatment for both conditions is pretty similar at first. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications are usually the first course of treatment. You may also be referred to physical therapy to help rebuild strength and flexibility in the joint, especially if a repetitive motion at your job or during a hobby is the suspected cause. 

If the pain doesn’t improve, your specialist may recommend corticosteroid injections. In rare cases, if the condition becomes chronic or severely limits your movements, surgery might be a last resort option.

When Should I See a Pain Specialist for Tendonitis or Bursitis?

It may be time to see a professional if your pain isn’t improving with home care or it’s starting to get in the way of your daily life. It’s especially important to seek medical attention if you’re dealing with intense pain, you can’t move a joint, or your symptoms have lingered for weeks despite your best efforts. Also, don’t ignore redness, warmth, or a fever since they could be signs of an infection. 

Have Chronic Pain? Contact Our East Tennessee Pain Clinic!

At Grace Point Pain Management, we know just how much chronic pain can interfere with your plans. Whether you’re dealing with tendonitis, bursitis, or another pain condition, our team is here to listen and provide treatment options tailored to your needs. 

You don’t have to push through the pain. Call 865-503-6865 today to schedule an appointment at our East Tennessee pain clinic!