Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, a fluid-filled sac, in the shoulder joint.
Thebursaprovides padding between bones,tendons, andligamentsto reduce friction and improve joint movement throughout the body.
There are multiplebursaein the shoulder, but this condition most commonly affects one called the subacromial bursa.
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It takes place if a vaccine needle is inserted into the bursa instead of the deltoid muscle.
Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications (oral or injected), and symptoms can last for weeks to months.
However, this condition usually doesn’t require surgery.
Your provider may performshoulder-specific teststo determine which structures in your shoulder joint are causing your pain.
In some cases, though, medication or medical treatments are needed.
If your bursitis is sparked by infection, your provider will prescribe antibiotics.
Cortisone Injections
Cortisone shotsprovide long-term pain relief for an inflamed bursa.
Repeated cortisone injections should be considered with care.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapyis a standard treatment for shoulder bursitis.
Joint aspiration is a procedure that removes the fluid with a needle.
This takes pressure off the shoulder joint, relieving pain and allowing for better movement.
Surgery
Although rarely used,subacromial decompression surgerycan treat shoulder bursitis.
Physical therapy can help restore function after this procedure.
In rare cases, bursitis is because of bacterial infection.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, weakness, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
Sometimes, additional imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI) are required.
Treatment includes home remedies, medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.
Sometimes, shoulder bursitis improves on its own.
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