Shoulder Bursitis
Do you feel a constant ache in your shoulder or sharp pain when lifting your arm? These could be signs of shoulder bursitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the small fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions the shoulder joint.
At SW Yung Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr Yung offers expert evaluation and effective treatment for shoulder bursitis, helping you return to pain-free movement with lasting results.
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis occurs when the bursa—located between the rotator cuff tendons and the top of the shoulder blade (acromion)—becomes inflamed. The bursa normally allows smooth gliding of tendons during shoulder motion. When inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the joint.
Prompt diagnosis and targeted treatment by an orthopaedic specialist like Dr Yung can help prevent chronic symptoms and restore proper shoulder function.
What Causes Shoulder Bursitis?
Bursitis in the shoulder can result from:
- Repetitive overhead motions (e.g. painting, swimming, throwing)
- Direct trauma to the shoulder
- Poor posture or biomechanical issues
- Rotator cuff tendonitis or impingement syndrome
- Age-related degeneration or overuse
This condition often develops gradually and may be mistaken for other shoulder injuries if not properly assessed.
Signs & Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis
Common signs of shoulder bursitis include:
- Pain on the outer side or top of the shoulder
- Discomfort when lying on the affected side
- Pain that worsens with lifting, pushing, or overhead movements
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
- Swelling or tenderness in the shoulder area
If these symptoms persist or interfere with your daily activities, schedule a consultation with Dr Yung Shing Wai at 6235 5225 for a thorough assessment.
How Is Shoulder Bursitis Diagnosed?
Dr Yung will perform a clinical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis:
- Physical Examination: Assessment of tenderness, range of motion, and strength. Specific movement tests may be used to distinguish bursitis from other shoulder conditions.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI scans may be recommended to visualise inflammation in the bursa and rule out rotator cuff injuries or joint damage.
Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
What Happens if Shoulder Bursitis Is Left Untreated?
If not properly managed, shoulder bursitis may lead to:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Loss of shoulder strength and function
- Development of chronic inflammation
- Impingement of the rotator cuff tendons
- Reduced quality of life and difficulty performing daily tasks
Early intervention can help avoid these complications and support a full recovery.
How Is Shoulder Bursitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and duration of symptoms, and may include both conservative and advanced options.
Non-Surgical Management
Most cases of shoulder bursitis can be treated without surgery:
- Rest and activity modification to reduce irritation
- Ice application and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physiotherapy to improve posture, shoulder mechanics, and flexibility
- Corticosteroid injections to relieve severe inflammation and pain
Surgical Options
Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered if symptoms persist despite conservative care:
- Arthroscopic Bursectomy: Minimally invasive removal of the inflamed bursa to relieve pressure and improve movement.
Dr Yung is skilled in managing stubborn or complex cases of shoulder bursitis using precise and effective surgical techniques when necessary.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Most patients recover well with non-surgical treatment and physiotherapy. Recovery may take several weeks, depending on the severity of inflammation. For surgical cases, post-op rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion and strength to the shoulder, with gradual return to normal activities.
At SW Yung Orthopaedic Clinic, we provide personalised rehabilitation plans to ensure long-term recovery and pain relief.
