Subacromialbursitis

The subacromial bursa is a fluid filled sac which is located under the acromion and functions to decrease friction between the rotator cuff and coracoacromial arch.

Bursae are found in many locations within the body such as the knee and hip and like any soft tissue, can become injured. In the case of the Subacromial Bursa, primary inflammation of the subacromial bursa is relatively rare and may arise from autoimmune inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, crystal deposition (Gout or Pseudo gout), calcific loose bodies (rheumatoid arthritis) and infection. More commonly, a subacromial bursitis occurs secondary to tendon degeneration or tendinopathy as part of a shoulder impingement syndrome.

The most common feature of a subacromial bursitis is shoulder pain which is worse at night. This is often associated with restricted movement of the shoulder especially with overhead activities. As this condition is commonly associated with a Rotator cuff tendinopathy it is difficult to differentiate the symptoms between both of these conditions as they usually coexist.

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Treatment for a Subacromial bursitis

Treatment for a Subacromial Bursitis will initially involve a course of conservative treatment. At our City of London Chiropractic clinic, our approach is based on initially reducing the pain and inflammation and from here the long term goal is focused on improving the mobility of the shoulder and strengthening up the Rotator cuff musculature to improve shoulder function. Postural exercises are also beneficial to increase the space for the passage of the Subacromial bursa and specific scapula stability exercises are also beneficial to improve the biomechanics of the shoulder girdle thus helping to reduce recurrences of this complaint.

If you would like any further advice regarding Subacromial Bursitis, please contact us at the EC2 clinic