Shoulder bursitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joints and helps reduce friction between the bones and soft tissues. When the bursa becomes inflamed, usually due to overuse or repetitive movements of the shoulder, it can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
The symptoms of shoulder bursitis include pain and tenderness in the shoulder, particularly when raising the arm, sleeping on the affected shoulder, or performing overhead activities. There may also be weakness and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.
The most common causes of shoulder bursitis are overuse or repetitive motions of the shoulder that put pressure on the bursa, leading to inflammation. Activities that involve repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing a ball, swimming, or painting, can increase the risk of developing shoulder bursitis.
Shoulder bursitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joints and helps reduce friction between the bones and soft tissues. This inflammation usually occurs in the subacromial bursa, which is located between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion (a bony protrusion of the shoulder blade).
Shoulder bursitis can be found even in asymptomatic shoulders, but it is more commonly seen in people who perform repetitive overhead movements or have suffered an injury to the shoulder. It is also more common in people over the age of 40.
Imaging findings for shoulder bursitis may include fluid accumulation and thickening of the bursa on ultrasound, or signs of inflammation such as fluid accumulation, increased signal on T2-weighted MRI images, and bone marrow edema on MRI.
The symptoms of shoulder bursitis include pain and tenderness in the shoulder, particularly when raising the arm, sleeping on the affected shoulder, or performing overhead activities. There may also be weakness and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.
Treatment options for shoulder bursitis include rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, ice therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, and physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Exercise plays an important role in the management of shoulder bursitis. Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers can help improve shoulder function and reduce the risk of future injury. Physical therapy may also include modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain.
Injections may also be used in the treatment of shoulder bursitis. Corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief of pain and inflammation, but repeated injections may have negative effects on tissue health and function. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use the patient's own blood to promote healing, may also be considered as an alternative to corticosteroid injections.
If you suspect you have shoulder bursitis, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider. With proper diagnosis and management, most people with shoulder bursitis can recover fully and return to their normal activities.
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