Our medical staff is thoroughly trained in the treatment of many shoulder pain relief methods. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, continuing reading to find out if shoulder bursitis treatment may be right for you.
What is Shoulder Bursitis?
Bursitis of the shoulder, also referred to as impingement syndrome, is the inflammation of the bursae. Between the top of the arm bone and the tip of the shoulder lie the tendons of the rotator cuff and a fluid filled sac called the bursa. The bursa protects the tendons and act as a cushion in the joint to stop muscles, bones and tendons from rubbing together.
When a shoulder bursa is irritated it becomes inflamed and grows in size. Normally, the tendons slide easily within this space, but if it becomes too narrow for overall normal motions, inflammation makes the space for movement smaller and very painful.
Causes
- Overuse of the shoulder joint
- An injury
- Infection
- Chronic conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, gout, tendonitis, diabetes, and thyroid disease)
Symptoms
- Pain around the outside or tip of the shoulder
- Pain when touching or lying on the shoulder
- Reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint
- Swelling or redness around the shoulder
- Shoulder pain with activities such as washing hair or reaching up to a shelf
Diagnosis and Treatment
Shoulder bursitis is commonly coupled with rotator cuff tears. Your doctor is able to differentiate shoulder bursitis and rotator cuff injury. An ultrasound is the most helpful method to diagnosing shoulder bursitis but an MRI may also be helpful.
Nonsurgical Treatment
- Rest
- Gentle exercise or physical therapy
- Cortisone injection or steroid shot
- Surgical treatment may also be necessary if symptoms have worsened
Shoulder injuries can be avoided. If you are experiencing shoulder pain call your doctor immediately!
At Lake Pointe Orthopaedics, we provide shoulder bursitis treatment for North Texas. Contact us today if you are experiencing shoulder pain, or if you suspect that you have shoulder bursitis.