How to Treat Shoulder Bursitis
Most clinical words ending in “itis” means inflammation of some sort – for instance, peritonitis and laryngitis. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac which prevents muscle insertions rubbing on bones within your body.
Shoulder bursitis occurs when among the bursa sacs around your shoulder joint becomes inflamed and sore. Usually the reason for this really is overuse – constant, repetitive movements of the arm rub the tendon permanently around the shoulder bursa, which then causes the inflammation. After that, any lifting of the arm above 90 degrees or overhead is painful and interferes with mobility. At best, shoulder bursitis is a nuisance, at worst can spell problems for the continued career of the athlete. In case your livelihood depends upon you fast-bowling in cricket, then the start of bursitis can be a disaster.
There’s two bursae in the shoulder which are most likely to be affected:-
Subdeltoid Bursa
This little sac lies on along side it of your upper arm, where your primary shoulder muscle (deltoid) meets your arm bone (humerus). If you have pain whenever your arm is held to the side at shoulder height, and you are certain you have not sustained a rotator cuff injury, then bursitis is likely to be the cause. When the pain appears to be towards the top of the shoulder instead of partway down the arm, it may be brought on by impingement. Shoulder impingement occurs when the soft tissues from the shoulder become trapped under the bony bit on top of the shoulder girdle (called the acromium process), causing – surprise, surprise – painful inflammation.
Subacromial Bursa
This bursa sits on top of the shoulder; if moving your arm in an arc from 90* to achieve your fingers towards the ceiling causes the pain, this really is probably the culprit. Bursitis in this area is also referred to as shoulder impingement.
If you’re able to tick the above boxes regarding pain in the shoulder, and especially if you were performing plenty of repetitive-type movements, then you probably have shoulder bursitis. A visit to your physician for diagnosis may be beneficial, however, there are some elements of shoulder therapy that can be done yourself:-
Rest from the activity you are doing. Bursitis is definitely an overuse injury, and many cases will clear up simply by themselves if left in peace and never aggravated.
Ice the region. Go ahead and take appropriate ice precautions. Cold reduces inflammation and may accelerate recovery. In acute stages don’t let yourself be lured to hop into a hot bath to ease the pain – it might feel good at the time, however in the long term can make things worse.
In severe and chronic cases, a shot of hydrocortisone may be necessary.
When inflammation has eased, build up your surrounding shoulder muscles to take some from the strain.
Most cases of bursitis respond well to conservative treatment, and may not recur when the appropriate remedial and rehabilitation exercises are done regularly.