University of Minnesota Health physicians provide the most up-to-date, effective treatments for soft tissue injuries. The care team at our Orthopedic Clinic is dedicated to delivering excellent care, innovative research and meaningful educational programs for all of our patients with soft tissue injury.
Soft Tissue Injuries including Tendonitis, Bursitis and Synovitis
Soft tissues throughout the body can be injured due to sprains, strains, overuse, or hard blows to the body. The most common soft tissues injured are muscles, tendons and ligaments. These injuries often occur during sports and exercise activities, but simple everyday activities can cause an injury.
Sprains, strains, contusions, tendinitis, bursitis and synovitis are common soft-tissue injuries. Injury to soft tissues can result in pain, swelling, bruising and loss of function in the affected area. Often these injuries heal in a week or two, but severe injuries require prompt medical attention.
- Tendinitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon or the covering of a tendon. Symptoms typically include swelling and pain that worsens with activity.
- Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa a small, jelly-like sac located throughout the body, including around the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and heel. Repeated small stresses and overuse can cause a bursa in the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee or ankle to swell.
- Synovitis is the inflammation of the synovial membrane. This membrane lines joints that possess cavities, like the shoulder and hip, known as synovial joints.
