Arthritisandbursitisare different conditions that have similar characteristics.
Bursitis is a temporary condition that’s usually brought on by overuse, injury, or infection.
Both involve joint inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
Kali9 / Getty Images
Kali9 / Getty Images
What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis is inflammation of thebursae, which are fluid-filled sacs near the joints.
The bursae cushion bones, tendons, and muscles to reduce joint friction and inflammation.
They can become inflamed from overuse, prolonged postures, or inflammatory conditions.
A person’s risk for bursitis increases with advancing age.
Medical conditions like arthritis,gout,diabetes, and thyroid disease are also risk factors for bursitis.
Occasionally, a sudden injury or infection can cause bursitis.
Other symptoms include:
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis encompasses more than 100 diseases.
The different types of arthritis have different causes.
RA symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and low-grade fever.
In some cases, it causes reduced function and disability.
How Arthritis and Bursitis are Similar
Arthritis and bursitis are similar in various ways.
In arthritis, it is in the joint, whereas bursitis is in the bursae.
Arthritis and bursitis are also different in pathology, onset, and how long they last.
Onset
Bursitis can come on suddenly and is usually an acute condition.
Length of Condition
Arthritis joint damage is often permanent.
Bursitis is a short-term irritation that doesn’t create lasting damage unless physical stress persists in the area.
How Arthritis and Bursitis are Diagnosed
Bursitis is usually diagnosed with a physical examination.
Diagnosis and treatment will make for a quick recovery in bursitis and a slower progression of arthritis.
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