Shoulder Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint’s bones, tendons, and muscles. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective shoulder bursitis physical therapy is essential for regaining optimal shoulder function and alleviating pain.

What is Shoulder Bursitis?

Shoulder bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles in the shoulder joint. When this bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain and limit shoulder movement. The most commonly affected bursa in the shoulder is the subacromial bursa, located between the acromion (the bony prominence at the top of the shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons.

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What Causes Bursitis in Shoulders

Shoulder bursitis can result from:

Overuse of the shoulder joint, leading to repetitive strain
Direct trauma or injury to the shoulder
Poor posture or muscle imbalances that stress the shoulder joint
Age-related wear and tear of the shoulder structures
Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout
Infections (although rare)

Treatment Options

Shoulder Bursitis Symptoms

Symptoms of shoulder bursitis include:

Pain and tenderness in the shoulder, particularly when lifting the arm
Swelling or stiffness in the shoulder joint
Difficulty moving the shoulder without pain
A dull ache that can become sharp with certain movements
Weakness in the affected arm
Warmth or redness around the shoulder area

Shoulder Bursitis FAQ

In this FAQ, we address key questions about the location of pain, healing timelines, the benefits of physical therapy, and what to expect during treatment. Understanding these aspects can help you navigate your recovery and regain optimal shoulder function.

Where is shoulder bursitis pain felt?

Shoulder bursitis pain is typically felt in the front and top of the shoulder. It may also radiate down the outside of the arm, often extending to the mid-arm or even the elbow. The pain is usually worse with shoulder movement, especially when lifting the arm overhead, reaching, or pushing. Shoulder bursitis pain can also feel sharp during sudden movements or dull and achy when the shoulder is at rest. Activities like putting on a shirt or lying on the affected shoulder can exacerbate the discomfort.

How long does it take for shoulder bursitis to heal?

The healing time for shoulder bursitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors:

Mild cases may improve in 1-2 weeks with proper rest and treatment.
Moderate cases typically take 3-6 weeks to heal with consistent therapy and care.
Severe or chronic cases may require 2-3 months or longer for full recovery.

Factors affecting healing time include adherence to treatment plans, overall health, age, and whether the underlying cause is addressed. Early intervention and proper management can significantly reduce recovery time.

What are the benefits of bursitis shoulder physical therapy?

Benefits of physical therapy for shoulder bursitis include:

Pain reduction and management
Improved shoulder mobility and range of motion
Strengthening of surrounding muscles to support the shoulder
Correction of posture and movement patterns
Prevention of future flare-ups
Faster return to normal activities and work
Non-invasive treatment option

What should I expect during bursitis shoulder physical therapy?

During bursitis shoulder physical therapy, you can expect:

A comprehensive initial evaluation to assess your condition
Customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs
Manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility
Targeted exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles
Modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation for pain relief
Education on proper posture and movement techniques
Home exercise program instructions
Regular progress assessments and treatment adjustments

Physical Therapy for Shoulder Bursitis at ATI

At ATI Physical Therapy, we offer specialized treatment for shoulder bursitis. Our experienced therapists use evidence-based techniques to reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and prevent recurrence. Our goal is to help you return to your normal activities pain-free and equipped with the knowledge to maintain shoulder health. Contact ATI today to start your journey to recovery from shoulder bursitis.

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