Shoulder Tendinitis, Bursitis & Impingement Syndrome
The tendons of the group of muscles collectively called the "rotator cuff" normally slide within the space between the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the acromion (tip of the shoulder).
- Tendinitis of the shoulder is an inflammation of these tendons or the tendons of the biceps muscle.
Bursae are fluid filled sacs in the joint that protect the tendons.
- Bursitis is an inflammation of one or more bursae.
Impingement syndrome is a condition in which the space between the humeral head and acromion becomes too narrow to allow the inflammed tendons and bursae to move freely between the bones.
- The tendons and bursae are "pinched"
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain with repetitive overhead use, weakness, heaviness of limb
- -intermittent sharp stabbing pain with internal and external rotation of arm
- Pain getting dressed and undressed
What causes tendinitis, bursitis & impingement syndrome?
- Repetitive overhead movement can cause inflammation of the rotator cuff and bursa
- -Can be worsened by the presence or development of a bone spur
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Ice, Heat, anti-Inflammatories or NSAIDs
- Injection Therapy and Physical Therapy
Surgical Treatment: Shoulder Arthroscopy (Subacromial Decompression)
- Removal of inflamed bursa and tissue
- Removal of bone spur, if present from the underside of the acromion
- Widens the space between the acromion and humeral head to prevent mechanical impingement
- Physical Therapy is an integral component to your recovery from surgery
- -Appropriate timing and progression is key to the outcome
- For further details on your rehabilitation, please see the Physical Therapy section in Patient Resources.