The distinction is this: The pseudoradiculopathy of trochanteric bursitis doesn't extend below the knee, while lumbar radiculopathy with sciatica typically goes past the knee laterally and runs down the leg, often as far as the foot, Dr. Robert W.
The signs of Sciatica include pain that originates from the lower back and radiates down one or both legs. But there are other conditions that mimic some of the symptoms of Sciatica, such as Bursitis. If you experience pain involving the lower back and legs you could be suffering from Sciatica.
Trochanteric bursitis is a clinical condition which simulates major hip diseases and low back pain, it may also mimic nerve root pressure syndrome.
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction between bones. Inflammation of these sacs, known as bursitis, can cause pain and swelling in the hip, which radiates down the leg.
For both conditions, your Commonwealth Orthopaedic Associates physician can recommend prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories to keep you comfortable. Physical therapy can also help reduce pressure on your nerves to reduce the severity of your sciatica.
Chronic bursitis may involve repeated attacks of pain, swelling, and tenderness. These may lead to the deterioration of muscles and a limited range of motion in the affected joint.
Activities or positions that put pressure on the hip bursa, such as lying down, sitting in one position for a long time, or walking distances can irritate the bursa and cause more pain.
If you have chronic bursitis, try to minimize flare-ups by stretching each day to increase range of motion. And avoid activities that you know will result in pain. Repetitive-motion activities are especially bad for bursitis. If you do have a flare up, remember that resting your hip is important.
Bursitis is typically caused by repetitive, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden, more serious injury. Age can also play a role as tendons become less elastic and more susceptible to tearing.
Leaving shoulder bursitis untreated can result in problems beyond mobility issues. In rare cases, it can also lead to a life-threatening complication. Septic (infectious) bursitis, in particular, can cause severe redness and warmth of the skin over the bursa, fever and chills, and tenderness at the site.
The problem is, piriformis syndrome is often mistaken for sciatica.
"There are all sorts of other reasons you can have pain down the leg," he said. "But in sciatica, there is typically pain, numbness or tingling down one leg, and these symptoms are typically worse than any back pain.
Differentiating between bursitis and other conditions that affect these joints— such as arthritis, tendinitis, tendon or ligament damage, infection, fracture or neoplasm— can make it a challenge to diagnose.
Inflammation in the bursa can cause significant pain while lifting or performing a rotational motion with the shoulder. When you lay on your side, the bursa in the shoulder can be compressed, leading to increased pain at night or when trying to sleep that may persist until proper treatment is provided.
The swelling and redness may spread away from the affected site and go up or down the arm. Also, an infected bursa can make you feel very sick, feverish and tired. If you have any of these symptoms, it is very important to seek immediate medical attention. Traumatic bursitis presents with the rapid onset of swelling.
If you have bursitis, the affected joint might: Feel achy or stiff. Hurt more when you move it or press on it.
Is Walking Good for Bursitis? Exercise is often prescribed to improve joint pain, so walking could be a vital part of managing your bursitis symptoms.
Pain from bursitis in your hip tends to get worse after you've been sitting or lying down. The pain may also increase when you do a repetitive activity, like climbing stairs.
Doctors may recommend over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce inflammation in the bursa and tendon and relieve pain. These medications are typically recommended for a few weeks while the body heals.
Since prepatellar bursitis is quite superficial, topical NSAIDs such as diclofenac topical gel (Voltaren Gel) can be very effective, with minimal systemic side effects.
Massage therapy has been found to be an effective treatment for both acute and chronic cases of shoulder bursitis. In addition to providing relief from pain, massage can also reduce inflammation, increase the range of motion, and improve overall function in the affected area.
Repetitive motions.
Rest is important if you have knee bursitis, and taking time away from sports that require putting weight on the knee is usually recommended by doctors. Wearing knee pads when you have to be on your knees may help prevent further irritation to the knee.