SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT & BURSITIS

Do you get a sharp or aching pain in your shoulder when reaching overhead or behind your back? You might be experiencing shoulder impingement or bursitis—two common causes of shoulder pain that often go hand in hand.

Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons or bursa in your shoulder are pinched or compressed during arm movements, particularly overhead. This usually happens in the narrow space between the acromion (part of your shoulder blade) and the rotator cuff tendons.

Over time, repeated impingement can irritate these structures and lead to inflammation and pain.

A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between tissues. In the shoulder, the subacromial bursa sits between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion. If this bursa becomes inflamed (bursitis), it can cause pain, swelling, and further restrict shoulder movement.

If you have shoulder impingement or bursitis, you might notice:

• Pain when lifting your arm or reaching overhead
• Discomfort when lying on the affected side
• Weakness or stiffness in the shoulder
• A “catching” or “grating” feeling during movement
• Reduced range of motion

Several factors can contribute to impingement and bursitis, including:

• Poor posture (especially rounded shoulders or forward head posture)
• Repetitive overhead activities (common in sports or some occupations)
• Shoulder instability or muscle imbalances
• Age-related changes in the rotator cuff or surrounding structures

The good news is that most cases of shoulder impingement and bursitis can be successfully treated without surgery. Physiotherapy focuses on:

• Reducing pain and inflammation using manual therapy, ice/heat, or taping
• Improving shoulder mechanics through posture correction and movement re-education
• Restoring strength and flexibility, especially in the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles with our Rotator Cuff Rehab Program
• Activity modification to reduce aggravating movements while you recover

In some cases, you may also benefit from corticosteroid injections if pain is severe or not responding to early treatment.

Ignoring shoulder pain or “pushing through” can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery. If you’re noticing persistent discomfort, it’s worth getting it checked. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term issues and get you back to doing what you love.

Need Help With Shoulder Pain? Our physiotherapists can assess your shoulder, identify the cause of your symptoms, and guide you through a personalised recovery plan. Book an appointment today online or by calling 9889 3903 and take the first step toward pain-free movement.

@hartwell.physio

MYTHBUSTERS! Episode 2 Lets talk Shoulders! Featuring our Physiotherpaist Cameron💪 #physio #shoulders #shoulderpain #shoulderinjury #cortisoneinjection #surgery #melbourne #exercise #fitness #physiotherapy #fyp

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