What is Tendinitis?
Tendons are structures where muscles narrow and attach to bones. Tendons are found throughout the body. Due to overuse, inflammation (non-infectious) and swelling may occur at these attachment points. This condition is called tendinitis.

Tendinitis and bursitis commonly affect areas such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. The condition usually develops suddenly and can cause severe pain.

Tendinitis is an injury to the tendons caused by excessive or improper use and repetitive movements. When treated early, tendinitis often resolves quickly. However, in a small number of patients, it may recur and become chronic.

What is Bursitis?
Bursae are small, sac-like structures that act as cushions between moving parts like bones, muscles, tendons, and skin. Bursitis presents as painful swelling around the joints. Inflammation of the bursae is very painful and the condition is called bursitis.

Causes of Tendinitis and Bursitis
Tendinitis may result from sudden injury but more commonly occurs due to repetitive microtrauma. Bursitis is most often caused by overuse of a joint or direct trauma to the bursa. Common causes include:

• Prolonged repetitive motions like typing or chopping/cutting for extended periods, or long-distance walking as in marathons
• Prolonged use of hand tools like scissors or pliers
• Repetitive backhand motions in sports like tennis
• Elderly individuals more frequently experience tendinitis and bursitis in the legs, hips, and elbows
• People with conditions such as gout, diabetes, blood, or kidney disorders are also at higher risk

How Are Tendinitis and Bursitis Diagnosed?
A detailed medical history and careful physical examination are essential for diagnosis. Patients usually present with pain. In tendinitis, tenderness is noted along the tendon or its sheath. Pain typically increases when the associated muscle is moved against resistance. Carpenters, gardeners, musicians, and athletes are at greater risk.

In most early-stage patients, MRI or ultrasound is not required. However, if symptoms persist or are suspected to be linked to a systemic disease, imaging and blood tests may be necessary. If bursitis is caused by infection, it may require drainage.

How Are Tendinitis and Bursitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. If caused by overuse or injury, appropriate precautions should be taken. In some cases, the joint may need protection or support. General treatment principles include:

• Rest: The joint should be rested for a short period. For larger joints like the hip or leg (e.g., Achilles tendon), weight-bearing should be minimized.
• Cold Therapy: Ice compresses (10–15 minutes, 2–4 times a day) are beneficial.
• Medications: NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and pain relievers may be used.
• Steroid Injections: In some cases, may provide short-term relief.
• Infections: If present, must be drained and treated with appropriate antibiotics.
• Support Devices: Orthotics can be used to reduce joint stress.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises may be necessary for persistent cases.

Because tendinitis and bursitis can last long, joint stiffness (e.g., frozen shoulder) may develop. In such cases, physical therapy, including hot/cold therapy, massage, and personalized exercise programs, can yield highly effective results.

Preventive Measures for Tendinitis and Bursitis

• Those who exercise or play sports intensely have a higher risk. Warming up and stretching beforehand is crucial.
• Rapid or aggressive exercise increases risk. Start slowly and gradually increase intensity.
• Resuming exercise after a long break may trigger these conditions. It’s better to exercise regularly at lower intensity rather than doing high-intensity workouts once a week.
• Using proper equipment and tools helps reduce risks.