Shoulder bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac near the shoulder joint. The bursa serves as a cushion between the bones, muscles, and tendons of the shoulder, allowing them to move smoothly without friction.
Symptoms of shoulder bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is characterized by inflammation of the bursa. The most common symptoms of shoulder bursitis include:
- Shoulder pain that may intensify with arm movement.
- Tenderness and redness in the affected area.
- Swelling of the shoulder.
- Difficulty moving the arm normally, especially when raising it above the head.
- A feeling of weakness in the affected arm.
- Fever may be present if the bursitis is caused by an infection.
Causes
Bursitis can be triggered by repetitive stress or injury to the shoulder. This overuse irritates the bursa, leading to inflammation. Common causes of shoulder bursitis include:
- Injury: Falls or impacts to the shoulder area can irritate the bursa and cause inflammation.
- Repetitive strain: Performing repetitive arm movements, such as lifting weights or engaging in activities that frequently use the shoulder, can lead to bursitis.
- Poor posture: Maintaining incorrect posture over a prolonged period, such as sitting or sleeping in an awkward position, also causes bursitis.
- Rheumatic diseases: Rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can also cause bursa inflammation.
- Infections: Sometimes, bacterial infections can cause shoulder bursitis.
Treatment
Chiropractic care is effective in treating some musculoskeletal conditions, including back and neck pain. Additionally, chiropractic contributions to treating shoulder bursitis include pain reduction and the restoration of mobility.
A chiropractor will assess the initial range of motion and the extent of involvement. Following this, they will work on the affected joint causing bursitis to restore its original position in the joint. This approach also aims to reduce the condition’s pain in a smooth, simple, and swift manner.
Moreover, the chiropractic specialist will check for any other pathologies originating from adjacent joints. This requires verifying the proper alignment of all vertebrae. It is crucial for the spine to be in perfect condition to prevent the recurrence of new bursitis after proper treatment.
If you suspect you have symptoms of this condition, we recommend consulting a medical specialist to obtain their opinion. Getting a clear diagnosis is vital for choosing the most appropriate treatment.