Understanding and Managing Bursitis and Tendonitis

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we understand how bursitis and tendonitis can interfere with your daily life, causing pain, swelling, and limited movement. Our experienced team specializes in diagnosing and treating these common musculoskeletal conditions using advanced non-surgical and minimally invasive therapies to help you recover faster and stronger.

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. When a bursa becomes irritated, it can cause significant pain and swelling.

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. This can lead to pain and tenderness just outside a joint.

Both conditions most commonly affect areas such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle.

The most common causes include:

• Repetitive movements or overuse (such as typing, throwing, lifting)
• Sudden injury or trauma to the joint
• Poor posture or improper technique during activities
• Arthritis (especially rheumatoid arthritis or gout)
• Infections (less common but possible in bursitis)

Age-related wear and tear can also make tendons and bursae more susceptible to inflammation.

You may be at higher risk for developing bursitis or tendonitis if you:

• Engage in repetitive activities (sports, work-related movements)
• Are over 40 years old
• Have poor posture or ergonomic setups
• Suffer from diabetes, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis
• Have previous injuries to the affected area

Early intervention can prevent mild irritation from turning into a chronic, disabling problem.

Symptoms of bursitis and tendonitis often overlap and include:

• Localized pain and tenderness near joints
• Swelling and warmth over the affected area
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Pain that worsens with movement or pressure
• Weakness around the affected joint

Pain may develop gradually or appear suddenly, especially after activity.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, diagnosis involves:

• Thorough medical history and physical examination
• Assessment of range of motion and palpation of tender areas
• Imaging studies:
  • X-rays to rule out bone abnormalities
  • Ultrasound to detect fluid in bursae or tendon tears
  • MRI scans to provide detailed images of soft tissue inflammation

Early and accurate diagnosis helps ensure effective treatment and faster recovery.

Most cases of bursitis and tendonitis respond well to conservative treatments, including:

Rest and activity modification:

• To allow healing

Ice therapy:

• To reduce swelling and discomfort

Medications:

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain and inflammation

Physical therapy:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises to support joint health

Bracing or splinting:

• Temporary immobilization to protect the area during healing

Ergonomic adjustments and correcting movement patterns also play a key role in recovery.

If pain persists, we offer advanced interventional pain management options:

• Corticosteroid injections:
  • Deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the bursa or tendon sheath to reduce swelling and pain
• Ultrasound-guided injections:
  • Ensure precision in targeting the inflamed area for maximal effectiveness
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or Stem Cell Therapy:
  • An emerging regenerative medicine technique that uses your body's natural growth factors to heal tendons and soft tissues

Injections can significantly improve symptoms and help patients avoid surgery.

Surgery is rarely necessary, but may be considered if:

• Symptoms persist despite extensive conservative management
• There is a significant tendon tear or a chronic, thickened bursa causing mechanical problems

Surgical options might include bursectomy (removal of the bursa) or tendon repair. At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we prioritize non-invasive solutions before recommending surgical interventions.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, patients trust us because we offer:

• Board-certified specialists in musculoskeletal and pain management care
• Advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive therapies
• Personalized, multidisciplinary treatment plans
• Comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery programs

Our goal is to reduce your pain, restore your movement, and get you back to living a full, active life.