Shoulder bursitis is a common condition that affects the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, of the shoulder. It causes inflammation and swelling, resulting in severe shoulder pain and discomfort. Shoulder bursitis can be caused by various factors, including injury, overuse, and repetitive motion. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of shoulder bursitis and how to treat and prevent it through physiotherapy and chiropractic care.
1) Injury – Shoulder bursitis can be caused by an injury, such as a fall or a tackle during sports. The inflammation can also occur when the rotator cuff is impinged, or compressed against the bursa. This results in swelling, causing pain and discomfort. To treat this type of injury, a physiotherapist or chiropractor can perform a range of motion exercises to reduce inflammation and restore shoulder mobility.
2) Overuse – Repetitive overhead movements can cause wear and tear on the shoulder, therefore triggering shoulder bursitis. This is common among athletes or individuals who commonly use their shoulders for overhead activities like throwing a ball or lifting weights. Rest and icing can lessen inflammation, while exercises can help minimize damage and improve shoulder function.
3) Age – As the body ages, wear and tear on joints and muscles can lead to shoulder bursitis. The rotator cuff loses its natural elasticity, increasing the risk of shoulder bursitis. Chiropractors and physiotherapists can perform specific strengthening and stretching exercises to help minimize symptoms and improve shoulder function.
4) Poor Posture – Poor posture can also cause shoulder bursitis. Sitting in front of a computer for prolonged periods or carrying heavy bags incorrectly can cause the shoulders to slump forward, straining them and leading to bursitis. Physiotherapy can improve posture, reducing the possibility of shoulder pain and bursitis and preventing the progression of the shoulder bursitis stage.
5) Genetics – Some people may have a genetic predisposition to bursitis, resulting in the condition despite no obvious recognizable injury or overuse. A chiropractor can assess your spinal alignment, ensuring smooth nerve supply to the shoulders and reducing the risk of bursitis.
Shoulder pain can be frustrating and debilitating, but physiotherapy and chiropractic care can address the root cause of shoulder bursitis and help prevent it from occurring. Through exercises and other treatments, these professionals can help you reduce pain and inflammation and increase shoulder mobility. Therefore, if you are experiencing shoulder pain, do not delay in seeking professional help. A chiropractor or physiotherapist can determine the root cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you get back to doing the things you love.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
