Shoulder Pain: Relieving Subacromial Bursitis
Subacromial bursitis is a common condition that causes shoulder pain and inflammation. If you're experiencing discomfort in your shoulder, it's essential to understand what subacromial bursitis is and how you can find relief.
In this blog post, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for subacromial bursitis to help you manage your shoulder pain effectively.
What Is Subacromial Bursitis?
Subacromial bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursa, a small sac filled with fluid located between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion (a bony projection on the shoulder blade), becomes inflamed.
The bursa serves as a cushion and reduces friction between the tendons and bones in the shoulder joint. When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.
What Causes Subacromial Bursitis?
Subacromial bursitis can be caused by repetitive overhead movements, such as those performed in sports like swimming, tennis, or baseball. It can also be a result of trauma or injury to the shoulder, leading to inflammation of the bursa.
In some cases, underlying conditions like arthritis or infection can contribute to the development of subacromial bursitis.
Symptoms of Subacromial Bursitis
The primary symptom of subacromial bursitis is shoulder pain, which may worsen with overhead movements or pressure on the affected area. You may also experience swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the shoulder joint.
In severe cases, the pain and inflammation can limit your ability to move your arm and perform everyday activities.
Diagnosing Subacromial Bursitis
If you are experiencing symptoms of subacromial bursitis, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Your doctor may perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms.
Treatment Options for Subacromial Bursitis
The treatment for subacromial bursitis typically involves a combination of rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Your healthcare provider may recommend modifying your activities to avoid exacerbating the condition and allowing the bursa to heal.
Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and improve range of motion. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Ways to relieve subacromial bursitis pain and inflammation include:
- Resting the affected shoulder to allow the bursa to heal
- Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen
- Performing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended by a physical therapist
- Considering corticosteroid injections for severe pain and inflammation
Preventing Subacromial Bursitis
While it may not always be possible to prevent subacromial bursitis, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition.
Avoiding repetitive overhead movements, maintaining good posture, and practicing proper body mechanics during physical activities can help protect your shoulder joint from injury and inflammation.
If you participate in sports or activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements, it's essential to warm up properly, use proper equipment, and take breaks to rest your shoulder muscles.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, swelling, or limited range of motion that does not improve with rest and self-care measures, it's crucial to seek medical attention.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms, perform a thorough examination, and recommend appropriate treatment options to help alleviate your shoulder pain and inflammation.
Ignoring symptoms of subacromial bursitis can lead to worsening pain and potential complications, so it's essential to address any concerns promptly.