Shoulder tendinitis and bursitis is irritation of the tendons or of the fluid-filled sac that cushions them, causing pain when the shoulder moves. This page explains the symptoms, causes and treatment.
Note: This is general information. If pain persists or weakness appears, see a doctor to find the cause.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Shoulder pain when lifting the arm or moving overhead
- Pain that increases with activity or at night
- Pain when lying on the shoulder
- Tenderness and mild swelling at the front or side of the shoulder
- Difficulty reaching behind you or lifting objects
- Aching that spreads to the upper arm
Causes
The problem usually comes from repeated strain. Causes include:
- Repeated overhead movements at work or in sport
- Throwing, swimming and weightlifting
- Poor balance of shoulder muscles or posture
- Tendons rubbing against the shoulder bone
- Age-related changes in the tendons
- A direct blow, or doing too much after a period of rest
Diagnosis
Diagnosis relies on questions about your activities and a clinical examination of shoulder movement and tender points. An X-ray may be requested for the bones, and an ultrasound or MRI to assess the tendons and bursa and to rule out a rotator cuff tear.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Many patients improve with non-surgical care and do not need an operation.
- Relative rest and avoiding painful movements
- Cold packs wrapped in a cloth for short periods
- Physiotherapy with stretching and strengthening
- Adjusting work posture and training technique
- Injections in some cases, at the doctor's discretion
Surgical treatment
Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered when pain continues despite non-surgical care, and it is done arthroscopically to remove what causes the rubbing or to clean an inflamed bursa. The surgeon decides after examination.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Time to improvement varies from person to person. Keeping up exercises and avoiding sudden overload can lower the chance of pain returning.
- Easing pain and inflammation
- Restoring shoulder movement
- Strengthening the shoulder and shoulder blade muscles
- Correcting posture and movement technique
- A gradual return to activity and sport
When to see the doctor
See a doctor if:
- Pain continues despite rest and simple care
- Pain wakes you at night
- You develop weakness lifting the arm
- Redness, warmth or fever appear with shoulder pain
- The pain began after an injury or fall