Shoulder Bursitis/Tendonitis

Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa and tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. A bursa is a fluid filled sac that sits between muscles or tissues to cushion and reduce friction in the area. In the shoulder there is a rather large bursa between the deltoid muscle and the shoulder joint. This is called the sub-deltoid bursa. This bursa can often become inflamed due to excessive friction from abnormal joint movements, poor posture or weakness of the surrounding musculature. Pain is felt when the shoulder is moved out to the side or behind the back.

In the shoulder, common areas for tendonitis are in the rotator cuff tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis) and bicep tendons. Pain can be felt deep in the shoulder or in the front of the shoulder. Pain is usually felt as a sharp, catching sensation with certain movements.

How our physiotherapists can help

Physiotherapy is the first line of conservative treatment for bursitis and tendonitis. Since most shoulder bursitis and tendonitis are due to underlying abnormal shoulder mechanics and muscle weakness, our trained physiotherapists will evaluate your movements to pinpoint the source of the trouble. Modalities may be used to alleviate pain and discomfort, while hands-on therapy improves joint mechanics and movement.

Finally, gentle strengthening exercises and joint coordination exercises will help to restore stability to the affected area and prevent re–occurrence of the symptoms. Book an appointment today to discover how we can help you relieve your shoulder pain and get you back doing the activities you enjoy!