Shoulder Bursitis
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between tissues in the shoulder. The most commonly affected bursa in the shoulder is the subacromial bursa, located between the rotator cuff and the acromion.
When this bursa becomes irritated — often due to overuse, trauma, or impingement — it can swell, become painful, and limit shoulder movement.
Book A Consultation
Causes and Risk Factors
- Repetitive overhead motion (e.g., swimming, throwing, lifting)
- Direct trauma to the shoulder
- Poor posture or scapular mechanics
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy or impingement
- Age-related degeneration
- Underlying systemic inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
Symptoms
- Dull ache or sharp pain in the top or side of the shoulder
- Pain worsens with lifting the arm overhead or behind the back
- Discomfort at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder
- Swelling and tenderness over the shoulder
- Limited shoulder mobility and stiffness
- Pain during activities like combing hair or putting on a shirt
Diagnosis
- Physical exam with tenderness over the subacromial space
- Pain reproduced with impingement signs (e.g., Neer and Hawkins tests)
- Ultrasound or MRI can confirm bursal swelling and rule out associated tendon damage
- Diagnostic injection of anesthetic into the bursa may temporarily relieve pain and confirm the diagnosis
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Rest and activity modification, especially avoiding overhead movement
- Ice application to reduce swelling and pain
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Physical therapy to:
- Improve posture and scapular alignment
- Strengthen rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers
- Corticosteroid injections may be used for persistent inflammation
Surgical Treatment
- Rarely necessary, but may be considered in chronic, refractory cases
- Arthroscopic bursectomy:
- Removal of inflamed bursa
- Often performed with subacromial decompression if impingement is present
Recovery Outlook
- Most patients improve with conservative management within 4–6 weeks
- Physical therapy is essential to prevent recurrence
- Surgical recovery (if needed) generally involves:
- A few days in a sling
- Return to daily activity within 2–3 weeks
- Full return to sport or labor by 6–8 weeks, depending on individual progress
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our shoulder experts provide precise diagnosis and evidence-based treatment for bursitis. With targeted therapy and expert care, we help patients overcome pain, restore range of motion, and avoid unnecessary surgery when possible.
Getting You Back in Motion
Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
Patient Testimonials
highly skilled surgeon
“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Kvitne
“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
Schedule a Consultation
Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.