Understanding Shoulder Bursitis
Our last post concluded our look at bursitis in the lower body. Today we move to the upper body and begin by looking at shoulder bursitis. We will explore the common types of bursitis in the shoulder, the causes, symptoms and potential treatment options.
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
In the shoulder the most commonly affected bursa is the subacromial bursa. It is located beneath the acromion (the outer tip of the shoulder blade). Subdeltoid bursitis is another form of shoulder bursitis that often occurs with subacromial bursitis, as these bursae are closely connected anatomically.
In the shoulder, both acute and chronic forms of bursitis exist. Chronic bursitis develops gradually due to long-term overuse or biomechanical dysfunction in the shoulder. Chronic bursitis can also be caused by inflammatory conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis or other systemic arthritis. Acute bursitis in the shoulder is usually the result of a specific injury or sudden increase in activity. Identifying the nature of the bursitis helps guide proper treatment and recovery strategies.
Causes of Shoulder Bursitis |
Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis |
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Treatment Options
As with most cases of bursitis, shoulder bursitis generally improves with conservative management and rest. Physical therapy aims to target exercises that improve shoulder mechanics, strengthen muscles, and prevent recurrence. Sometimes your physiotherapist may use ultrasound and/or electrotherapeutic modalities to reduce inflammation. Proper rest and activity modification are essential to avoid flare-ups in pain and re-aggravation of the bursa(e). Anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed by your physician to aid in reducing inflammation and pain. Recovery time for shoulder bursitis depends on severity and adherence to treatment. Mild cases may improve within weeks, while more significant inflammation can take several months. Early treatment typically leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.
Preventing Shoulder Bursitis
You can lower your risk of developing shoulder bursitis by warming up prior to exercise. Additionally, improving posture, shoulder biomechanics, and strengthening shoulder muscles can reduce the likelihood of getting bursitis. Avoiding repetitive shoulder strain and using caution with overhead work can go a long way towards preventing bursitis.
Conclusion
Shoulder bursitis is a common, but treatable cause of shoulder pain. Recognising the symptoms early and addressing the underlying causes can increase your chances of a speedy recovery. If you believe you may have shoulder bursitis, consult one of the physiotherapists at Kamloops Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre. They can guide you through a specific, individualised rehabilitation program that will improve your chances of a full recovery. This blog post was written by physiotherapist Jacob Coelho. To book an appointment with Jacob or one of our other experienced therapists, call 250-314-0788 or book online HERE.