CONDITION OVERVIEW
Shoulder bursitis is a common cause of shoulder pain that occurs when the subacromial bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions the rotator cuff tendons from the bone above—becomes inflamed. This inflammation reduces the space within the shoulder joint, leading to a painful condition known as impingement. The pain is typically felt when lifting the arm to the side or overhead. While it can result from a direct injury, shoulder bursitis is most often an overuse condition that develops over time from repetitive activities.
ROOT CAUSES
Shoulder bursitis is a key component of shoulder impingement syndrome. It is primarily caused by factors that irritate or crowd the bursa and rotator cuff tendons in the narrow space beneath the acromion bone.
The most common cause. Sports like swimming and tennis, or occupations like painting and construction, repeatedly stress the shoulder, leading to inflammation.
Inflammation or tears in the underlying rotator cuff tendons can cause the overlying bursa to become secondarily inflamed and painful.
Slouching or rounding the shoulders forward can narrow the space for the bursa and tendons, leading to chronic pinching and irritation with movement.
A direct fall or impact onto the shoulder can cause acute traumatic bursitis, leading to immediate pain and inflammation.
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS
Shoulder bursitis symptoms often begin as a mild ache and can progress if the aggravating activity continues. The pain is typically linked to specific arm movements.
A dull, aching pain localized to the top and outer area of the shoulder, which can sometimes radiate down the side of the arm.
Sharp pain when lifting the arm, especially when reaching for items on a high shelf, combing your hair, or throwing a ball.
Pain that worsens at night, making it difficult to fall asleep or causing you to wake up, especially when you roll onto the affected shoulder.
A classic symptom where pain is most intense as the arm passes through a specific range (typically 60 to 120 degrees) when lifted out to the side.
The affected shoulder may feel weak or stiff. This weakness is often due to pain inhibiting muscle function rather than actual muscle damage.
The point of the shoulder, specifically the front and side, may be tender when pressure is applied.
Pain when reaching overhead or difficulty sleeping shouldn't be a part of your daily life. It's time to get a clear diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. Contact the Spine and Nerve Center Riverview to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Abraham J. Fura and take the first step toward a pain-free shoulder.