Chronic Bursitis and Tendonitis

Q:  I am hoping you can help me. After seeing many doctors, and having had back surgery to help the pain in my legs, I've been told I have chronic bursitis and tendonitis which is very painful in both my legs. Can you suggest anything I can do to relieve the pain?

A:  Hip bursitis/tendonitis and low back pain that radiates down the legs is common and, unfortunately, as you discovered, surgery may not be the answer. If you are obese, weight loss will help diminish the stress to your back and legs. Exercises to strengthen your abdominal and back muscles or massage may be helpful.

There is a group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, of which ibuprofen is the classic example, that are fairly effective in relieving pain and that are not addicting. You could also try Zostrix, an over-the-counter cream made from hot red peppers, that has been used for diabetics with painful legs and for arthritis. Experiment with the application of heat or ice for pain relief.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.