Bursitis of the Shoulder
Description
This is a swelling of a fluid-filled sac called the “subacromial bursa.” It’s in the shoulder, between a bony protrusion called the “acromion” and the rotator cuff. You have similar sacs near other large joints throughout your body. They act as cushions between your bones and your soft tissue. Normally they have a small amount of fluid inside them. But sometimes they can swell. We call that “bursitis.”
Animations
Bursitis of the Shoulder
Causes & Triggers
Shoulder bursitis is usually caused by constant stress or friction against your bursa. It can happen if you do a lot of repeated arm motions, especially with your arm raised. A lot of lifting and pulling can cause it. This type of bursitis is often a problem for painters and for construction workers.
- Gout
- Hard blow to tip of elbow
- Infection of bursa caused by bite, scrape or wound
- Repetitive and prolonged motion or pressure
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Trauma
- Long periods of pressure on joint—leaning on elbows, sitting or kneeling on hard surfaces
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms include pain and tenderness. It may be hard for you to move your shoulder. You may not have your full range of motion. You may feel pain during activity and when you are at rest. It can wake you up at night.
- Aches
- Pain (especially when applying pressure)
- Redness and warmth (may indicate infection)
- Restricted movement
- Stiffness
- Swelling
Tips & Treatment
Treatment options include rest, medications and physical therapy. If these aren’t helpful, you may benefit from surgery. Your healthcare provider can create a plan that’s right for you.
- Non-surgical treatment of symptoms may include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, icing the affected area, physical therapy and/or cortico sterioid injections.
