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Fibromyalgia and Hip/Knee Bursitis: Understanding the Connection

Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain and tenderness but does not directly cause bursitis. Bursitis is inflammation of synovial bursae (fluid-filled sacs cushioning joints).

Why They May Coexist

Fibromyalgia alters pain processing (central sensitization), amplifying discomfort from any source.
Altered gait/posture from fibromyalgia pain may mechanically irritate bursae.
Comorbidities (obesity, osteoarthritis) increase risk of both.

Distinguishing Features

Management

Treat bursitis locally (rest, NSAIDs, PT, injection).
Manage fibromyalgia centrally (exercise, CBT, duloxetine/milnacipran/pregabalin).
Address biomechanics (gait analysis, orthotics).

Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment for each condition.

Arthritis - Related Articles

Feature	Fibromyalgia	Bursitis
Pain pattern	Widespread, symmetric	Localized to joint
Swelling	Absent	Often present
Imaging	Normal	Fluid, inflammation on MRI/US
Response to local injection	Poor	Good (corticosteroid)