Shoulder Bursitis
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of the bursa in the shoulder. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. In the shoulder, the bursa allows the rotator cuff tendons to glide smoothly under the shoulder blade.
When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the shoulder. Shoulder bursitis often develops from repetitive use and may occur alongside rotator cuff tendonitis or shoulder impingement.
At OIBortho, our physicians evaluate and treat shoulder conditions, including bursitis, for patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.
Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis
Symptoms may develop gradually or appear after a sudden increase in activity.
Common symptoms include:
- Shoulder pain with movement
- Pain when lifting the arm overhead
- Tenderness on the outside of the shoulder
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Weakness due to pain
- Swelling or warmth around the shoulder
Pain is often worse with repetitive motion or after activity.
Causes and Risk Factors
Shoulder bursitis is usually caused by irritation or repeated stress on the shoulder joint.
Common causes include:
- Repetitive overhead motion
- Sports such as swimming, tennis, or baseball
- Heavy lifting or manual labor
- Shoulder impingement
- Direct trauma or injury
- Poor posture or shoulder mechanics
- Age-related wear and tear
Inflammation develops when the bursa is repeatedly compressed or irritated.
How Shoulder Bursitis Is Diagnosed
A physician will evaluate your shoulder through a physical exam and review of symptoms, including strength and range of motion.
Imaging may include:
- X-rays to rule out bone issues
- MRI to assess soft tissue inflammation
- Ultrasound in select cases
These tests help confirm bursitis and rule out rotator cuff tears or other shoulder problems.
Understanding Shoulder Bursitis
The shoulder bursa sits near the rotator cuff tendons, so inflammation in this area can significantly affect shoulder movement and comfort. It is commonly seen alongside other overuse injuries like tendonitis or impingement syndrome.
Early treatment helps reduce inflammation and prevents chronic shoulder pain.
Treatment Options
Most cases of shoulder bursitis improve with conservative care.
Common treatments include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Ice therapy
- Physical therapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Cortisone injections (if needed)
- Surgery (rare, for chronic cases)
Physical therapy focuses on improving shoulder mechanics and reducing irritation.
Why Choose OIBortho?
OIBortho provides expert shoulder care focused on diagnosing the source of pain and restoring normal movement. Our physicians create personalized treatment plans to help reduce inflammation and improve shoulder function.
We serve patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties with comprehensive orthopaedic care close to home.
Call 732-800-9000 to speak with one of our scheduling specialists or click here to schedule online 24/7!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shoulder bursitis?
It is inflammation of the bursa, a small sac that helps cushion and reduce friction in the shoulder.
What causes shoulder bursitis?
It is most often caused by repetitive motion, overuse, or shoulder impingement.
How long does it take to heal?
Mild cases may improve in a few weeks, while more persistent cases can take longer.
What does shoulder bursitis feel like?
It typically causes pain on the outer shoulder, especially with lifting or overhead movement.
Is it the same as rotator cuff tendonitis?
No, but the two conditions often occur together.
When should I get it checked?
If pain persists, worsens, or limits shoulder movement, evaluation is recommended.