Is My Pain From Arthritis or Bursitis?
You may be wondering what the difference is between arthritis and bursitis as they are very similar. Bursitis is often mistaken for arthritis. However, arthritis is a chronic condition that damages bone, joints, and cartilage. Whereas bursitis is a temporary condition where the bursae is inflamed for a period of time. Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that act as extra lubricant for the joints.
Causes
Arthritis is caused by wear and tear, injuries, genetics, age, underlying diseases, and much more. There are many different types of arthritis and causes. Arthritis is one of the oldest diseases known to mankind.
Bursitis is caused by injury, overuse, and infection. The inflammation of bursae is usually due to too much stress on the bursa.
Symptoms
Both arthritis and bursitis can be very painful. The main symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and limited range of motion. Meanwhile, the main symptoms of bursitis include tenderness, inability to move joints, achiness, stiffness, and swelling.
The image below shows the difference between a healthy joint versus an inflamed joint, known as bursitis.
Arthritis
- Pain is worse in the morning
- Results from wear and tear over a long period of time
- Symptoms worsen in months/years
- Requires attention from a medical professional
Bursitis
- Pain is worse at night
- Results from overuse and injuries
- Bursae inflammation is temporary
- At-home treatments can help relieve symptoms
Treatment
Bursitis can usually be treated through rest, elevating the joint, avoiding heavy activities, and applying ice and heat. Arthritis can be treated through therapies offered at Midwest Pain Solutions. We specialize in high-intensity laser therapy, which stimulates healing in areas of deep pain and damage. Our laser therapy relieves pain, improves blood flow, reduces swelling, repairs cell growth and scar tissue, and boosts nerve function.
We treat many patients who suffer from arthritis pain. To learn more about our therapies and results, call (920) 569-2350 today!