Sports Medicine · Novi, MI · Oakland County

Tendinitis and Bursitis Treatment in Novi, MI

Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling around tendons and bursae are among the most common musculoskeletal complaints we see. PrimeCare of Novi evaluates and treats tendinitis and bursitis with same-visit diagnosis, on-site imaging, and a clear recovery plan — without a specialist referral for most cases.

Physical examination and same-visit evaluation
On-site digital X-ray — reviewed same visit
Corticosteroid injections available in-office
Dr. Victor Faris — fellowship-trained sports medicine physician
Request an appointment Walk-in Urgent Care 📞 (248) 426-7200

Serving Novi, West Bloomfield, Northville, Farmington Hills and all of Oakland County

UNDERSTANDING THE CONDITIONS

Tendinitis vs bursitis — similar symptoms, different structures

Both conditions affect soft tissues near joints and cause pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion — but they involve different structures and require somewhat different approaches.

🦴 TENDINITIS — tendon inflammation

Inflammation of the tendon

Tendons are the thick cords connecting muscle to bone. Tendinitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed or irritated — typically from overuse, repetitive movement, or sudden strain. Pain often feels like a dull ache that worsens with specific movements.

Commonly affected areas:

Shoulder — rotator cuff tendinitis
Elbow — tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Knee — patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee)
Heel/ankle — Achilles tendinitis
Wrist and forearm

💧 BURSITIS — bursa inflammation

Inflammation of the bursa

Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. When they become inflamed — from repetitive pressure, overuse, or trauma — the result is bursitis. Pain is often more diffuse and may involve noticeable swelling around the joint.

Commonly affected areas:

Shoulder — subacromial bursitis
Elbow — olecranon bursitis
Hip — trochanteric bursitis
Knee — prepatellar bursitis
Heel — retrocalcaneal bursitis

Common causes of both conditions

Overuse from sports or exercise Prolonged pressure (kneeling, leaning) Sudden trauma or injury
Poor posture or lifting technique Aging — tendons lose elasticity over time Repetitive work or occupational tasks

SYMPTOMS, DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

What to expect at PrimeCare of Novi

🔴 Symptoms

Both conditions present similarly — the location and character of pain help distinguish them:

Pain or tenderness near a joint
Swelling or warmth around the area
Reduced range of motion or stiffness
Pain worsened by movement or pressure
Tendinitis: dull ache with specific movements
Bursitis: diffuse pain with visible swelling

🔍 How we diagnose

Early diagnosis prevents chronic problems and speeds recovery. Our evaluation includes:

Physical examination and joint assessment
Patient history and activity review
On-site digital X-ray to rule out fracture
Ultrasound referral when soft tissue imaging is needed
MRI referral for complex or persistent cases

⚕️ Treatment options

Most mild to moderate cases respond well to conservative treatment:

Rest — avoid activities that trigger pain
Ice — 15–20 min every few hours for 48 hrs
NSAIDs — ibuprofen for pain and inflammation
Physical therapy — strengthening and stretching
Corticosteroid injections — for severe inflammation
Aspiration — fluid removal for chronic bursitis

Dr. Victor Faris MD Sports Medicine Tendinitis Bursitis Novi MI

Dr. Victor Faris, MD

Sports Medicine

FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED SPORTS MEDICINE IN NOVI

Specialist-level sports medicine — without the specialist wait or referral

Dr. Faris completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship and routinely evaluates and treats tendinitis and bursitis across all major joints. He can perform in-office corticosteroid injections, order imaging, and coordinate physical therapy referrals — all from our Novi office.

Book with Dr. Faris

PREVENTION

Most cases are preventable

Warm up before activity and stretch afterward Use proper technique for sports and lifting
Maintain good posture and ergonomics Strengthen the muscles supporting affected joints
Take breaks during repetitive tasks Avoid returning to full activity too soon after injury

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions about tendinitis and bursitis in Novi

Where can I get treated for tendinitis or bursitis in Novi, MI?

PrimeCare of Novi offers same-visit evaluation and treatment for tendinitis and bursitis at 39555 W. Ten Mile Road, Suite 302, Novi, MI 48375. Dr. Victor Faris is a fellowship-trained sports medicine physician who evaluates and manages these conditions without requiring a specialist referral in most cases. Call (248) 426-7200 or request an appointment online.

How do I know if I have tendinitis or bursitis?

Both conditions cause pain, swelling, and limited movement near a joint — and they can be difficult to distinguish without an examination. Tendinitis typically causes a dull, aching pain that worsens with specific movements related to the affected tendon. Bursitis often causes more diffuse pain with visible swelling. A physical examination and imaging can confirm the diagnosis and rule out fractures or tears that may require different treatment.

How long does tendinitis or bursitis take to heal?

Mild cases typically improve within 2 to 4 weeks with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. Moderate cases may take 4 to 8 weeks, particularly if physical therapy is involved. Chronic or severe cases — especially those requiring injections or aspiration — can take longer. Returning to activity too quickly is one of the most common reasons tendinitis and bursitis become chronic problems. Early evaluation and consistent follow-through with your treatment plan significantly improve recovery time.

Are corticosteroid injections safe for tendinitis and bursitis?

Corticosteroid injections are a well-established treatment for both conditions and can provide significant relief when conservative measures have not been sufficient. They are generally safe when used appropriately and are not recommended as a first-line treatment or repeated frequently. Dr. Faris will discuss whether an injection is appropriate for your specific situation based on the severity and duration of your symptoms.

Can I walk in for same-day evaluation of tendinitis or bursitis?

Yes. PrimeCare Novi Urgent Care accepts walk-in patients for same-day evaluation of tendinitis and bursitis including on-site digital X-ray — no appointment needed. For follow-up care or treatment with Dr. Faris, same-week appointments are available at PrimeCare of Novi primary care. Call (248) 426-7200 or visit pcnoviurgentcare.com for urgent care hours.

GET EVALUATED TODAY

Joint pain that lingers deserves a proper evaluation

Early treatment prevents chronic problems. Schedule with Dr. Faris or walk in to our urgent care — on-site X-ray available either way.

Request an appointment Walk-in Urgent Care 📞 (248) 426-7200
📍 39555 W. Ten Mile Rd, Suite 302
Novi, MI 48375
Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM
Same-week appointments often available
Dr. Victor Faris, MD
Sports Medicine Fellowship · In-office injections

This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.