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.
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.