Introduction:

Subacromial bursitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the subacromial bursa, a fluid-filled sac located in the shoulder joint. This article provides an overview of subacromial bursitis, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding this condition is essential for individuals experiencing shoulder pain and healthcare professionals involved in their care.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Subacromial bursitis is typically caused by repetitive overhead activities, shoulder trauma, or underlying conditions that lead to inflammation. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Repetitive Movements: Repetitive overhead activities or motions that strain the shoulder joint, such as throwing, lifting, or reaching, can irritate the subacromial bursa.
• Shoulder Impingement: When the space between the acromion (bony prominence of the shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons narrows, it can result in the compression of the subacromial bursa.
• Trauma: Direct trauma or injury to the shoulder can lead to inflammation of the subacromial bursa.
• Age and Degeneration: As individuals age, degenerative changes in the shoulder joint can increase the risk of developing subacromial bursitis.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms of subacromial bursitis may include:

• Shoulder Pain: Pain in the shoulder that worsens with movement, especially overhead activities.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the shoulder fully or experiencing pain at the end of the range of motion.
• Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling, redness, and tenderness around the shoulder joint.
• Pain at Rest: Discomfort or pain even when the shoulder is at rest, particularly during sleep.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing subacromial bursitis involves a comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and potentially additional tests. Key steps in the diagnostic process may include:

• Medical History: The healthcare provider will inquire about the nature of the symptoms, the onset, and any triggering activities or injuries.
• Physical Examination: A thorough examination of the shoulder joint, assessing range of motion, areas of tenderness, and signs of inflammation.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be recommended to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out other possible causes of shoulder pain.

Treatment Options:

The management of subacromial bursitis aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore shoulder function. Treatment options may include:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms and temporarily modifying movement patterns can help alleviate strain on the shoulder joint.
• Pain Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or analgesics may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A structured program of physical therapy exercises and stretches can help improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and stability.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, a healthcare professional may administer corticosteroid injections directly into the subacromial space to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Surgical Intervention: If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical intervention, such as subacromial decompression, may be considered to create more space in the subacromial area and alleviate impingement.

Prevention and Rehabilitation:

To prevent or minimize the recurrence of subacromial bursitis, individuals can take proactive measures, including:

• Proper Technique: Ensuring proper technique and body mechanics during overhead activities or repetitive movements.
• Gradual Progression: Gradually increasing intensity, duration, or frequency of activities to allow the shoulder joint to adapt.
• Shoulder Strengthening: Regular exercises targeting shoulder muscles can help improve stability and prevent strain on the bursa.

Conclusion:

Subacromial bursitis is an inflammatory condition that causes shoulder pain and limited mobility. Early recognition, appropriate diagnosis, and timely intervention are crucial in managing symptoms and restoring shoulder function. Through a combination of conservative measures, medications, physical therapy, and, if necessary, surgical intervention, individuals with subacromial bursitis can find relief and regain their quality of life.

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