Shoulder bursitis is a common condition that affects many individuals, particularly those engaged in repetitive overhead movements, such as athletes, tradies, and office workers. Without proper treatment, shoulder bursitis can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term discomfort.

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Shoulder bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, muscles, and tendons, becomes inflamed. The shoulder has several bursae, but the subacromial bursa, located at the top of the shoulder, is the most commonly affected. When this bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, stiffness, and restricted movement, making everyday activities like lifting or reaching difficult.

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How Does It Happen?​

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• Direct trauma: A fall or blow to the shoulder can lead to inflammation and bursitis.

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• Poor posture: Hunching or slouching can place extra pressure on the shoulder joint, irritating the bursa.

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• Age-related wear and tear: As the shoulder tissues weaken with age, they become more prone to inflammation.

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• Underlying conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions can increase the likelihood of developing bursitis.

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Common Signs and Symptoms

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Recognising the early signs of shoulder bursitis is crucial for preventing the condition from worsening. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the shoulder: Especially noticeable when lifting your arm or reaching overhead, such as when lifting objects or reaching up.

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• Swelling and tenderness: The area around the shoulder may feel swollen or tender to the touch.

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• Limited range of motion: Difficulty lifting your arm fully or performing daily tasks like combing your hair or reaching behind your back.

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• Stiffness: Feeling stiff, particularly after waking up or periods of immobility.

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• Shoulder weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder, making it harder to lift or carry objects.

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How to Treat Weightlifter’s Shoulder

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Fortunately, shoulder bursitis is treatable, and early intervention can prevent long-term issues. Treatment options include:

• Rest and activity modification: Reducing activities that strain the shoulder can allow the bursa to heal. It's crucial to avoid repetitive overhead movements and give the shoulder time to rest.

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• Physiotherapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help regain mobility and strength. Manual therapy, electrotherapy, and shockwave can assist in pain management.(Hseih et al. 2023)

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• Ice : Applying ice packs to the shoulder several times a day can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

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• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. 

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• Corticosteroid injections: In more severe cases, a physiotherapist may refer you for a steroid injection to reduce swelling and pain. (Hseih et al. 2023)

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The Role of Physiotherapy in Recovery

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Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the treatment and recovery of shoulder bursitis. A trained physiotherapist can develop a personalised rehabilitation program to restore function and prevent recurrence. Key benefits of physiotherapy include:

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• Strengthening exercises: Targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, improving stability and reducing the likelihood of future injuries. (Hseih et al. 2023)

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• Stretching and mobility: Gentle stretching exercises can improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.(Hseih et al. 2023)

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• Posture correction: A physiotherapist can teach proper posture techniques to avoid strain on the shoulder, especially during work or sports activities. (Hseih et al. 2023)

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• Pain management: Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound/shockwave, and electrotherapy may be used to relieve pain and improve mobility. (Hseih et al. 2023)

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References

• Hsieh L-F, Kuo Y-C, Huang Y-H, Liu Y-F, Hsieh T-L. Comparison of corticosteroid injection, physiotherapy and combined treatment for patients with chronic subacromial bursitis – A randomised controlled trial. Clinical Rehabilitation. 2023;37(9):1189-1200. doi:10.1177/02692155231166220

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• Gebremariam L, Hay EM, van der Sande R, et al Subacromial impingement syndrome—effectiveness of physiotherapy and manual therapy British Journal of Sports Medicine 2014;48:1202-1208.