Many common orthopaedic complaints have no identifiable source of injury or trauma. Most are a result of inflammatory conditions of the joint or tendons that can be effectively treated with conservative management. Common examples include bursitis of the shoulder and tendonitis of the elbow. These generally respond well to a step wise process starting with anti-inflammatory medications or injections, with treatment becoming more intensive if the case is refractory. A majority of patients with these types of problems do not require surgery or prolonged intervention.