30 Years of Experience in Rehabilitation Services

Tendinitis and Bursitis Treatment


What is Tendinitis?

Tendons are structures where muscles taper into a band and attach to the bone. Tendons are widespread in our body. Due to excessive use, inflammation (non-infectious inflammation) and edema can develop at these attachment points. This condition is called tendinitis.

Tendinitis and bursitis commonly affect the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. They usually occur suddenly and can cause severe pain.

Tendinitis is damage to the muscle tendons due to excessive use, improper use, and repetitive movements. When treated early, tendinitis heals quickly. In some cases, it can recur and become chronic.

What is Bursitis?

Bursae are small sac-like structures that act as cushions between bones, muscles, tendons, and skin. Bursitis appears as painful swelling in joint areas. Inflammation of these structures is very painful and is called bursitis.

Causes of Tendinitis and Bursitis

Tendinitis can result from sudden injuries but is often caused by repeated minor trauma. The most common cause of bursitis is excessive use of a joint or direct impact on the bursa. Common causes include:

  • Typing on a keyboard for prolonged periods and performing repetitive cutting/chopping motions
  • Using hand tools such as scissors or pliers for extended periods
  • Playing tennis and performing repetitive backhand strokes
  • Aging, which increases the incidence of tendinitis and bursitis in the legs, hips, and elbows
  • Conditions such as gout, diabetes, blood, and kidney diseases

How Are Tendinitis and Bursitis Diagnosed?

A good medical history and a thorough physical examination are essential for diagnosis. Patients usually present with pain. In tendinitis, tenderness is detected along the tendon or its sheath. Pain occurs when the affected muscle moves against resistance.

Bursitis and tendinitis are more common in professions such as carpentry, gardening, musicians, and athletes.

In early cases, imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound are usually unnecessary. If pain persists or an underlying systemic disease is suspected, imaging and blood tests should be conducted. If bursitis results from an infection, drainage of the inflammation may be required.

Treatment of Tendinitis and Bursitis

Treatment depends on the cause. If overuse or injury is responsible, appropriate measures should be taken. In some cases, joint protection and support may be necessary. General treatment principles include:

  • Rest: The affected joint should be rested for a short period. If the issue involves major limbs (e.g., Achilles tendon), weight-bearing should be minimized.
  • Cold application: Applying ice for 10-15 minutes, 2-4 times daily, can be beneficial.
  • Medications: NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and pain relievers.
  • Steroid injections: May provide short-term relief in some cases.
  • Drainage: If an infection is present, needle aspiration and appropriate antibiotics are necessary.
  • Support: Orthoses can be used to reduce joint load.
  • Physical therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises may be required for persistent tendinitis.

Since bursitis and tendinitis can be prolonged conditions, joint stiffness (such as frozen shoulder) may develop, requiring physical therapy. Heat/cold applications, massage, and personalized exercise programs yield positive results.

Preventive Measures for Tendinitis and Bursitis

Individuals who engage in intense sports and exercise have a high risk of developing tendinitis and bursitis. To reduce this risk:

  • Always perform warm-up and stretching exercises before exercising.
  • Avoid rapid and intense exercises; start slowly and gradually increase intensity.
  • Returning to exercise after a long break can cause tendinitis and bursitis. It is better to exercise daily at a lower intensity rather than doing intense workouts once a week.
  • Using proper equipment and sports gear can help reduce the risk.