| |
It is very difficult to differentiate arthritis from bursitis, as the symptoms of both the conditions are quite similar. Arthritis is typically an inflammation of one or more joints that leads to degeneration of the bone and connective tissues. Bursitis is basically an inflammation of ‘bursa’, which is a cavity that resembles a sac, surrounding the joints and is filled with some fluid that decreases the friction caused due to movement. Our body consists of over 150 bursa sacs. When the fluid in the joint reduces and it leads to friction, it is known as bursitis.
Arthritis occurs in the weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, while bursitis is commonly present in the elbows, shoulders, hips and big toe. Arthritis is commonly known to be an age-related disease that results because of wear and tear of the connective tissues and cartilage, thereby causing bone degeneration. It is also caused by an autoimmune disorder called rheumatoid arthritis.
Bursitis occurs as a result of age-related osteoarthritis, and it does not show in the X-ray film, unlike arthritis.
The treatment for bursitis and arthritis are quite similar. Both the conditions are treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen. |