Shoulder Buirsitis
What is a Bursitis?
Shoulder Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between tissues in the shoulder, particularly between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion.
Types of Shoulder Bursitis:
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Subacromial Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa located beneath the acromion, the most common type.
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Subdeltoid Bursitis: Affects the bursa under the deltoid muscle, often linked to subacromial bursitis.
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Septic Bursitis: Bacterial infection causing inflammation of the bursa, less common but more serious.
Mechanism of Injury:
Shoulder bursitis is typically caused by repetitive overhead motions (e.g., in sports or work) that lead to irritation and inflammation of the bursa. It can also result from direct trauma or as a secondary condition associated with rotator cuff injuries, impingement syndrome, or arthritis.
Symptoms
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Pain: Sharp or aching pain in the shoulder, especially with overhead activities or when lying on the affected side.
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Tenderness: Localised tenderness over the bursa, typically on the outer shoulder.
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Swelling: Possible mild swelling in the shoulder.
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Limited Range of Motion: Pain and stiffness, particularly when lifting the arm.
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Weakness: Reduced strength due to pain and inflammation.
Treatment
Clinical Treatment:
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Physiotherapy: Exercises to improve shoulder mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles, particularly the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers.
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Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation and joint mobilisation to alleviate pain and improve function.
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Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of persistent pain, injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
Surgical Treatment:
Surgery is rarely needed for shoulder bursitis but may be considered if conservative treatments fail. Arthroscopic bursectomy (removal of the inflamed bursa) is a potential option. Post-surgery, rehabilitation involves physiotherapy to restore shoulder strength and range of motion.
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