Section 5. Bone, Joint, and Muscle Disorders

Chapter 74. Disorders of Muscles, Bursas, and Tendons

Topics: Introduction | Muscle Cramps | Fibromyalgia | Bursitis | Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis | De Quervain's Syndrome | Baker's Cysts

Introduction

The muscles, bursas, tendons, and bones must be healthy and functioning properly for the body to move normally. Muscles, which contract to produce movement, are connected to the bones by tendons. Bursas are flat sacs containing joint (synovial) fluid that reduce friction in areas where skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments rub over bones.

Often, muscles, bursas, and tendons are injured in sports activities (see Section 5, Chapter 75). Injury, overuse, infection, and occasionally disease can temporarily or permanently damage muscles, bursas, and tendons. Damage can cause pain, limit control over movement, and reduce the normal range of motion.