Health Care

Shoulder Bursitis: Helping You Find Relief

A Couple of Friends Get Ingredients From a Cabinet in the Kitchen as the Duo Prepares to Cook.

Choose the health content that’s right for you, and get it delivered right in your inbox.

Whether you’re reaching for a book on the shelf, sitting at a desk or swinging at a baseball, your shoulders are always at work. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the shoulder is the body’s most injured joint. If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain, you might have shoulder bursitis.

AdventHealth Orthopedic Surgeon Benjamin Lindbloom, MD, explains the symptoms of shoulder bursitis and its risks.

Do You Have Shoulder Bursitis?

“Shoulder bursitis occurs when fluid builds up in the sacs between the bones and joint tissues (known as the bursa) and becomes inflamed,” says Dr. Lindbloom. When healthy, bursa sacs provide a cushion that helps bones, tendons and muscles move together without friction and pain.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

Talk to your doctor if you experience any uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

  • Dull ache, sharp pain or mild tenderness in the shoulder
  • Stiffness or swelling in the shoulder
  • Pain when lying on the shoulder
  • Pinching pain when raising the hand overhead

Who’s at Risk?

“Anyone can develop shoulder bursitis, but professions that involve a lot of repetitive shoulder movement top the list, such as painting and carpentry,” explains Dr. Lindbloom. Hobbies such as baseball, tennis, lacrosse and weightlifting can also lead to bursitis. “Plus, certain conditions increase your chances of developing bursitis, including arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disease.”

Expert Treatment for Shoulder Pain

If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain, a limited range of motion that interferes with your daily activities or weakness of the shoulder or arm, you should see an orthopedic specialist. Our expert orthopedic team is committed to providing expert-level care for shoulders — with uncommon compassion. To learn more or schedule an appointment, click here.

Recent Blogs

A young man tying his shoes
Blog
Rothman Orthopaedics: Here To Get You Back On Your Feet
A man at a doctor's office practicing safety measures.
Blog
Safe Joint Replacement Solutions for Joint Pain
Blog
Are Those Aches Arthritis?
A Man Playing Golf with His Club in the Back Swing of His Approach to the Green.
Blog
What is Golfer’s Elbow and How Can You Conquer It?
Blog
Get Moving Again with Safe Orthopedic Care
View More Articles