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Shoulder Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis happens when swelling and redness develop between the upper arm bone and shoulder tip. The rotator cuff tendons and a fluid-filled sac (bursa), which cushions them, sit in this space.

Usually, tendons glide smoothly, but in some cases, the space narrows. This irritates the tendons and bursa, leading to inflammation. As they swell, movement becomes even more restricted. Eventually, the space gets too tight; hence this causes the tendons and bursa to get pinched with each movement (impingement).

Symptoms

Bursitis symptoms vary based on inflammation severity and type. Swelling is the primary sign of chronic bursitis. Patients usually seek medical help after prolonged swelling that won’t subside. It’s not often painful or red but can become warm and tender without getting infected.

Infected bursitis causes significant warmth, pain, tenderness, and fever. Redness and swelling may stretch along the arm, making you feel feverish, ill, and fatigued. If these symptoms appear, seek medical care immediately.

Traumatic bursitis leads to sudden swelling, often from a direct impact, like hitting the elbow on turf or a mat when wrestling, playing football, or lacrosse. The area may become mildly warm and tender, sometimes with bruising.

Causes

Bursitis has several causes, but it usually results from excessive strain on the bursa. The condition falls into three main categories.

The first most common type, chronic bursitis, develops gradually because of repeated irritation. It often occurs without a clear cause. However, some people with conditions like gout, diabetes, pseudogout, uraemia, or rheumatoid arthritis may be more prone to it.

Infected bursitis, the second and most serious type, happens when bacteria infect the bursa. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to severe complications.

The least common type, traumatic bursitis (acute traumatic bursitis), mainly affects athletes. It results from repeated friction against a hard surface or excessive joint bending.

Diagnosing Shoulder Bursitis

Doctors diagnose shoulder bursitis through a medical history review, physical examination, and various tests, including:

  • X-ray: Uses electromagnetic energy to capture images of bones, tissues, and organs.
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Combines magnets, radio waves, and computer technology to create detailed internal images of structures and organs.
  • Ultrasound: Utilises high-frequency sound waves to examine tissues and organs inside the body.
  • Aspiration: During this procedure, a thin needle is used to extract fluid from the inflamed bursa to assess if infection or gout is the reason for bursitis.
  • Blood tests: Help confirm or rule out certain conditions.

Shoulder Bursitis Treatment

Nonsurgical options:

The initial step in addressing shoulder bursitis is reducing inflammation. Avoid movements that cause pain, like overstretching or reaching too far. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Motrin or Advil, can help ease swelling and discomfort.

For most people, a few weeks of rest and medication are sufficient to treat shoulder bursitis. Once the pain subsides, gentle exercises or physical therapy can restore normal and pain-free movement.

If symptoms persist, a cortisone injection may be recommended. This steroid shot reduces swelling but does not directly relieve pain. In severe cases, doctors may administer it on the first appointment. However, repeated injections can weaken tendons and should thus be used cautiously.

Surgical options:

In some cases, surgery is required to treat shoulder bursitis. Through a tiny incision, a minimally invasive procedure using an arthroscope is done to remove the inflamed bursa, bone, and any spurs to create more room for the rotator cuff tendons.

Preventing Shoulder Bursitis

To lower your risk of the condition, follow these tips:

  • Warming up before workouts, sports, or repetitive activities.
  • Easing into new activities and increasing intensity gradually.
  • Taking frequent breaks when performing repetitive tasks.
  • Protecting vulnerable joints with elbow or knee pads.
  • Quitting activities that cause pain.
  • Maintaining good posture and proper body positioning.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Seek medical attention right away if you experience:

  • Pain or movement issues that interfere with daily activities.
  • Pain that worsens or doesn’t improve with treatment.
  • A lump or bulge near the affected joint.
  • Redness or swelling at the affected joint.
  • Fever, chills, or night sweats.

Bottom Line

Shoulder bursitis can be painful and limiting, but with proper care, most cases improve with rest and medication. Preventive measures like warming up, maintaining good posture, and avoiding repetitive strain can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

Make an appointment with us to get the right diagnosis and treatment for lasting relief.