Bursitis and tendonitis are common conditions that are also known as soft tissue rheumatic syndromes.  These conditions are characterized by pain and inflammation in the structures and tissues around the joints.

Bursitis is an irritation or inflammation of the bursa, a small sac located between bone and muscle, skin or tendon that allows for smooth movement between these structures.

Tendonitis is an irritation or inflammation of the tendon, a cord that attaches muscle to bone.

In bursitis and tendonitis, pain occurs near joints, so you may mistake this pain for that of arthritis.  But arthritis is the inflammation of the joint itself, not the structures around the joint.  Bursitis and tendonitis may result from overuse or injury to the joint areas, incorrect posture, stress on soft tissues due to an abnormal or poorly positioned joint or bone, other diseases or conditions, or an infection.  A physical examination and medical history will help your doctor to make a diagnosis of bursitis or tendonitis.

Regular exercise and learning proper techniques for performing common activities may help prevent bursitis and tendonitis from occurring.