Shoulder bursitis is the inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs known as bursae that cushion the tendons, and muscles near their attachments to the shoulder joint. These bursae work to enable smooth movement of the joint, but when inflamed, they lead to pain and limited mobility.

Due to inflammation and pain, movements between the muscles and tendons are restricted. Practically any age group can be affected, though more commonly seen with overuse as in athletes or degeneration,  in old age.

What is Shoulder Bursitis?

The shoulder joint, a complex structure involving bones, tendons, and muscles, relies on the synergy of various components for seamless movement. Among these components, the bursae play a crucial role. They are in place to cushion the various components of the joint ensuring smooth gliding of one structure over the other.

Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

Injuries and using your shoulder too much are the main reasons for bursitis. This happens a lot with sports injuries or when you repeatedly strain your shoulder.

Any injury to your shoulder can irritate the small fluid-filled sacs (called bursae) in your shoulder, making them swell. If you use your shoulder in the same way over and over, it can also irritate these bursae. This is especially true for activities that need a lot of strength, like swinging a hammer or throwing a ball. At first, it might not hurt, but if you keep doing it without giving your shoulder time to heal, it can get worse.

Infectious shoulder bursitis happens when an infection from another part of your body spreads to the bursae in your shoulder. Bacteria, like staph infections, are the most common cause.

Types of Shoulder Bursitis:

There are three types of shoulder bursitis:

Chronic: This happens when shoulder bursitis keeps coming back, usually due to repeated injuries or overusing the shoulder. It’s the most common type.

Acute: This type happens suddenly after an injury, but it is just a one-time problem.

Infectious (septic): This occurs when an infection from another part of your body spreads to the shoulder area and affects the bursa.

Diagnosis for Shoulder Bursitis

If you suspect shoulder bursitis, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests, like X-rays or ultrasounds. Early detection is vital for effective management and quick relief. Treatment often includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Persistence of symptoms due to bursitis requires Ultrasound-guided Injections into the bursa for immediate pain relief and restoration of activity. Once pain-free, the patient needs to strengthen the muscles around the bursa to prevent recurrence. In cases of recurrent bursitis, the surrounding muscles also need to be taken care of and involves PRP injections into the muscles, tendons and the bursa.

What are the risk factors?

Anyone can get shoulder bursitis, but you are more likely to get it if you:

• Play sports that need you to move your shoulder over and over, like throwing, rowing, or swinging a bat, racket, or club.
• Do physical work that puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders, like using tools or lifting heavy things.
• People like painters, carpenters, landscapers, plumbers, and warehouse workers have a higher chance of getting it.
• Have a health problem that causes swelling in your body.

How can Bursitis be Prevented?

Incorporating proper warm-up routines, maintaining good posture, and practising shoulder-strengthening exercises can reduce the risk. Additionally, taking breaks during repetitive activities and avoiding excessive workload can safeguard shoulder health.

What are some of the lifestyle adjustments that can help with bursitis?

The most important factor in prevention is ensuring proper warm-up and avoiding sudden jerky movements or exercises in sports activities. Additionally, ensuring ergonomic workspaces and regular shoulder stretching at the workplace promotes joint health and minimizes the likelihood of inflammation.

What can I do if the symptoms of bursitis do not improve?

If the symptoms of bursitis don’t get better, you should talk to your doctor. Normally, the symptoms should improve with the treatment mentioned earlier. It is really important to see a doctor if you think you might have an infection. You should also get medical help if you notice swelling in more than one area or if the swelling gets worse, even with the treatment.