Subacromial bursitis is inflammation of the fluid filled sac (bursa) that causes intense shoulder pain which worsens when moving the arm.
Subacromial Bursitis
![Subacromial bursitis](https://www.masnad.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Subacromial_bursitis_shoulder_pain.jpg)
What is Subacromial Bursitis (SAB)?
![Subacromial bursitis](https://www.masnad.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/A_swollen_bursa_between_shoulder_bones_and_muscles_causes_subacromial_bursitis.jpg)
What Causes It?
Subacromial bursitis occurs when the bursa that sits between the shoulder bones, muscles and tendons swell and become inflamed. The inflammation can happen suddenly due to a shoulder injury or gradually due to overuse of the shoulder muscles.
People at risk of subacromial bursitis include:
Jobs involving repeated overhead lifting or forceful pulling.
Sports involving repeated throwing, pitching or swinging.
Symptoms
Here are some common signs that can point to subacromial bursa:
- Pain in the shoulder
- Shoulder stiffness
- Pain spreading down the arm towards the elbow or wrist
- Worse pain when reaching behind the head (washing hair) or lifting the arm above the shoulder (reaching for a shelf, swimming).
- Pain when lying on the shoulder, example when sleeping
- Redness or warmth on the shoulder
How is it diagnosed?
- Several questions will be asked about the shoulder pain (location, intensity, aggravators/relievers)
- A physiotherapist will do a few simple tests to see the strength and movement of the shoulder joint.
While the above steps can quickly diagnose subacromial bursitis, ultrasound or x-ray scanning may be performed to confirm.
Common Types of Bursitis
- Inflammatory bursitis is when the shoulder cushion becomes inflamed due to overuse.
- Calcified bursitis is when bone forms in the shoulder cushion due to chronic or recurrent bursitis.
- Septic bursitis is when there is an infection in the shoulder cushions.
Tips and tricks for managing daily activities
- First 1-2 weeks: avoid using the sore arm. Continue to use the opposite arms without increasing the pain.
- After 1-2 weeks: Start to use both arms without increasing the pain.
- Avoid activities that make the pain worse.
- Keep regularly used items at home or work below shoulder height.
- Sleep on the opposite shoulder.
Treatment
- Steroid injection
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Education to manage pain and inflammation
- Soft tissue massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Simple exercises (stretches, strengthening) to avoid permanent stiffness and weakness
- Shoulder blade setting exercises to ensure correct shoulder positioning
How long until I get better?
The time of treatment may vary from patient to patient, but in most cases, the symptoms improve within a few months of treatment. Getting early treatment means you can avoid long-term joint problems.
![Subacromial bursitis](https://www.masnad.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Correct_shoulder_posture_to_avoid_shoulder_pain.png)
Take home message
- Subacromial bursitis is an inflammation that causes shoulder pain, usually gradually.
- At first, give time for the swelling and inflammation to go down before using the sore arm.
- Good posture can help to relieve symptoms.
- A physiotherapist can give exercises that will help with the symptoms and prevent permanent weakness and stiffness.
- Early treatment means permanent damage to the joint can be avoided.
For all your SAB needs, feel free to give us a call on 02 9793 8840 or Book Online
![Masnad Clinic job listing](https://www.masnad.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_0346.jpg)
New Client Offer - 10% OFF
Are you in pain? Not sure if we can help you?
Book your initial appointment and receive 10% off any service!