Bursitis/Tendonitis
What is Bursitis/Tendonitis?
Bursitis and tendonitis are two common inflammatory conditions that affect the shoulder joint, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Though they are distinct conditions, they often occur together and have similar symptoms.
- Bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder joint. The bursa acts as a cushion, allowing the shoulder’s tendons and muscles to move smoothly over the bones. When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to shoulder pain, especially with movement.
- Tendonitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, typically the rotator cuff tendons or the biceps tendon. Tendons are fibrous structures that connect muscles to bones, and when they become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or repetitive motion, tendonitis develops. The rotator cuff tendons are especially vulnerable to this condition.
Both conditions are often a result of overuse or repetitive motions, particularly in sports or activities that require overhead movements.
Causes of Bursitis/Tendonitis:
- Repetitive Motion:
Performing repetitive overhead movements, such as lifting, throwing, swimming, or weightlifting, can place stress on the shoulder tendons and bursa, leading to inflammation. - Injury or Trauma:
Sudden injuries or trauma, like a fall onto the shoulder, can cause direct damage to the tendons or bursa, triggering an inflammatory response. - Age-Related Degeneration:
As we age, the tendons and bursa naturally weaken, and the ability to repair themselves diminishes. This makes older individuals more susceptible to developing tendonitis or bursitis, especially with activity. - Poor Posture or Muscle Imbalance:
Poor posture and muscle imbalances can lead to improper movement mechanics, which may contribute to tendon strain and bursa irritation. - Underlying Conditions:
Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and gout can increase the risk of developing bursitis and tendonitis, as they may contribute to inflammation in the shoulder region.
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Symptoms of Bursitis/Tendonitis:
- Pain:
The most common symptom of both bursitis and tendonitis is shoulder pain. The pain may be dull or aching and tends to increase with movement, especially overhead actions. Bursitis-related pain is often felt on the outside of the shoulder, while tendonitis pain is typically felt in the front or upper part of the shoulder. - Swelling and Tenderness:
Swelling around the shoulder joint is a key sign of inflammation. The area may feel tender to the touch, and movement may be limited due to discomfort. - Limited Range of Motion:
Both bursitis and tendonitis can restrict the range of motion in the shoulder. Lifting the arm, reaching overhead, or performing any activity that requires shoulder movement can be difficult and painful. - Pain at Night:
Many individuals with bursitis or tendonitis experience increased pain at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder or during sleep. - Weakness:
If left untreated, these conditions may cause the shoulder muscles to weaken, making it difficult to perform normal tasks like lifting or pushing.
Why is it Important to Treat Bursitis/Tendonitis?
If left untreated, bursitis and tendonitis can lead to chronic pain, limited shoulder mobility, and even permanent tendon or bursa damage. Persistent inflammation can lead to the breakdown of tissue and worsen the condition. Early intervention is essential to prevent long-term complications and restore shoulder function.
Treatment for Bursitis/Tendonitis:
Treatment for bursitis and tendonitis typically involves a combination of conservative approaches to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve shoulder function. Surgical intervention is rarely required unless the condition is severe or has led to tendon rupture.
Key Treatment Modalities for Bursitis/Tendonitis:
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Heat Therapy
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for both bursitis and tendonitis. It helps reduce pain, restore shoulder mobility, and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
- Pain Management and Inflammation Control:
Physiotherapists often use cold therapy (cryotherapy) to reduce swelling and numb the pain in the initial stages of the condition. Ultrasound therapy is also commonly used to promote healing by delivering sound waves to the affected tissue, which can reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the injured area. - Stretching and Mobility Exercises:
Restoring full range of motion is key to recovery. Physiotherapists use gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and relieve tension in the shoulder muscles and tendons. Specific exercises may also be used to mobilize the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness caused by inflammation. - Strengthening Exercises:
Once the pain has subsided and mobility is improved, strengthening exercises become the focus. These exercises target the rotator cuff muscles and other stabilizing muscles around the shoulder to improve function and prevent future injuries. Resistance bands, free weights, or bodyweight exercises may be used to progressively strengthen the shoulder. - Manual Therapy:
Manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilizations, and myofascial release, may be used to reduce muscle tension, release trigger points, and improve movement in the shoulder joint. These techniques can alleviate pain and improve blood circulation, aiding the healing process. - Postural Correction and Ergonomic Training:
Poor posture can contribute to shoulder strain and exacerbate bursitis and tendonitis. Physiotherapists provide posture correction exercises and ergonomic training to ensure proper movement patterns and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Chiropractic care can be a valuable adjunct to physiotherapy in managing bursitis and tendonitis, particularly when there are underlying spinal or joint misalignments affecting the shoulder.
- Joint Adjustments:
Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment in the cervical spine (neck) and thoracic spine (upper back), which can affect shoulder function. By addressing misalignments, chiropractors can reduce strain on the shoulder muscles and joints, aiding in pain relief and improved movement. - Soft Tissue Therapy:
Chiropractors may use myofascial release or active release therapy to treat tight muscles in the shoulder and surrounding areas. These techniques help reduce muscle stiffness, promote blood flow, and speed up the recovery process.
Heat therapy is useful in the later stages of recovery to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. Applying heat to the shoulder with a heating pad or warm compress can help relax the muscles, enhance blood circulation, and reduce discomfort.
Why Choose ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab for Bursitis/Tendonitis Treatment?
At ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab, we are committed to helping you recover from bursitis and tendonitis and restore normal function to your shoulder. Our team provides:
- Individualized Treatment Plans:
We tailor treatment plans to your specific needs, focusing on pain relief, improving shoulder mobility, and strengthening muscles to prevent re-injury. - Comprehensive Care:
Our physiotherapists and chiropractors work together to provide a holistic approach to treating shoulder conditions, ensuring optimal recovery. - Ongoing Support and Education:
We offer continuous support and guidance throughout your rehabilitation process, ensuring that you fully recover and regain the strength and function needed to return to daily activities.
Start Your Recovery Today
If you are suffering from bursitis or tendonitis in the shoulder, don’t wait to seek help. Contact ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward pain relief and shoulder recovery.