Shoulder Specialty
Shoulder Bursitis Specialist in Columbia, SC
What is Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles around the joints. The bursae are crucial in facilitating smooth movements of the joints, particularly in areas prone to friction.
Bursitis often affects the space between the rotator cuff muscles and the acromion, the outer edge of the shoulder blade. This condition is instrumental in preventing friction during arm movements or lifting, ensuring that the shoulder can move freely without pain or restriction.
At Midlands Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, our team of physicians and physical therapists are dedicated to finding the best treatment plan for your shoulder bursitis.
What Causes Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis can arise from several factors, including:
- Repetitive Motion: Frequent, repetitive shoulder activities can irritate or overuse the bursa, leading to inflammation.
- Injury: A direct blow or acute injury to the shoulder can cause sudden bursitis.
- Age: The risk of bursitis increases as tissues become more susceptible to wear and tear as we age.
- Other Conditions: Pre-existing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or diabetes can also contribute to the development of bursitis.
- Infection: Though rare, the bursa can become infected with bacteria, leading to a condition known as septic bursitis.
Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis
Individuals with shoulder bursitis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Pain or tenderness in the shoulder, especially with movement or pressure
- Swelling and redness in the affected area
- Difficulty moving the shoulder, including lifting the arm
- Pain during the night, particularly when lying on the affected side
- Sharp pain when performing specific movements
How is Shoulder Bursitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of shoulder bursitis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that may include:
- Physical Examination: Assessing the range of motion, tenderness, and swelling in the shoulder.
- Medical History: Discuss symptoms, activities that may contribute to the condition, and any previous shoulder issues.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis of bursitis.
Treating Shoulder Bursitis
The treatment for shoulder bursitis aims to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, with most cases responding well to non-surgical methods:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can provide relief and allow the bursa to heal.
- Cold Therapy: Applying ice to the shoulder can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the bursitis and inflammation are caused by infection.
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce severe inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy, including strengthening and flexibility exercises, can improve shoulder function and prevent future issues.
For persistent or severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered. Arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, can be used to remove inflamed bursae or address other underlying issues within the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Bursitis Care in South Carolina
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain that may be related to bursitis, our team at Midlands Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery is here to help. Our experienced physicians and physical therapists are committed to delivering personalized care plans to manage your symptoms and restore shoulder function. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—contact us at 803-256-4107 or visit our website to schedule an assessment and begin your journey to recovery. We serve patients from Columbia, SC, Irmo, SC, Lexington, SC, and surrounding areas.