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Shoulder Bursitis Treatment

The bursa is a fluid-filled sac in the shoulder that offers a cushion between the bones and soft tissues during movement. The bursa and tendons in the rotator cuff are enclosed by bone. The bursa allows the shoulder movement without bone rubbing against the tendons. When the bursa becomes inflamed (shoulder bursitis), it can push against the bones and tendons, causing shoulder stiffness and pain. Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine offers shoulder bursitis treatment at our medical facility in UES New York City.

Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

Bursitis in the shoulder is most commonly caused by an injury. A dislocation, rotator cuff tear or other type of injury can impact the bursa, causing swelling. Other factors that can cause shoulder bursitis include infection, arthritis, bone spurs, gout, thyroid disease, tendonitis and diabetes. When shoulder bursitis occurs, it can cause the following symptoms:

  • Swelling and redness on the affected shoulder
  • Shoulder is tender to the touch
  • Pain on the outside of the shoulder
  • Pain when reaching up
  • Limited range of arm/shoulder motion

Shoulder bursitis can progressively become worse. An initial injury can cause bursa inflammation, resulting in more irritation due to the impingement of the bursa and tendons. The bursa can continue to swell, becoming more and more painful. When rest and NSAIDs are not effective in relieving the inflammation, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to relieve inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove bone spurs or create space in the shoulder to relieve pressure on the bursa.

If you have been diagnosed with shoulder bursitis or have symptoms, our orthopedic specialists can offer treatment for relief. Contact us at our clinic in NYC’s Upper East Side to schedule an exam, consultation and treatment for shoulder bursitis.

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