Have you ever experienced a persistent, nagging pain in your shoulder that makes simple tasks like reaching for a cup or getting dressed a challenge? If so, you might be dealing with shoulder bursitis. This common condition can significantly affect your quality of life, but with proper understanding and management, you can regain pain-free movement.
Keep reading to learn more!
The Basics of Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these bursae become irritated or inflamed, they can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.
Several factors can contribute to the development of this condition:
- Overuse or repetitive motions
- Common in activities like sports or certain occupations
- Trauma or injury to the shoulder
- Underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or diabetes
Shoulder bursitis typically presents with a gradual onset of pain, often described as a dull ache or burning sensation. The pain may worsen with movement or when pressure is applied to the affected area. You may also experience stiffness, swelling, and tenderness around the shoulder joint. In some cases, the pain may radiate down the arm or even disrupt sleep.
Treatment For Shoulder Bursitis At Delmarva Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays an important role in managing shoulder bursitis and restoring function. Here’s what you can expect:
Pain Management
Our skilled physical therapists use a variety of manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and help manage inflammation.
Range of Motion Exercises
Mobility exercises may be incorporated to improve shoulder movement and prevent stiffness.
Strengthening Exercises
Targeted exercises to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint to provide better support and stability.
Posture Correction
Your therapist may assess your posture and provide guidance on maintaining proper posture to help your shoulder blade function properly and reduce stress on the shoulder.
Activity Modification
You may be advised to modify or avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms until the inflammation subsides.
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact Delmarva Physical Therapy for help. Our team of experienced physical therapists is dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you achieve optimal recovery. Remember, early intervention is key to effectively managing shoulder bursitis.
Schedule an appointment with us today to get back to your active life without the pain!



