Shoulder bursitis can make even the simplest movements—like reaching for a cup or putting on a jacket—feel uncomfortable. This condition occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions your shoulder joint, becomes inflamed. The result? Pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities. The good news is that physical therapy provides a safe and effective bursitis treatment for shoulder pain, helping patients restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and prevent future flare-ups.
Below, we’ll walk you through five essential steps physical therapists use to get you moving again—without unnecessary medications or invasive procedures.
Five Steps To Shoulder Bursitis Relief
Step 1: Reduce Pain and Inflammation
Why It Matters
When bursitis flares up, inflammation can cause significant discomfort and limit movement. Addressing this early makes the recovery process smoother.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Gentle Movements
- Therapists guide you through small, pain-free movements to prevent stiffness without aggravating the inflammation.
Ice and Heat Therapy
- Applying ice reduces pain, while heat improves circulation to speed up healing.
Soft Tissue Massage
- Targeted techniques help ease muscle tension and reduce strain on the bursa.
Pro Tip
Avoid prolonged rest. While movement should be gentle, keeping the shoulder completely still can worsen stiffness.
Step 2: Restore Range of Motion
Why It Matters
When shoulder bursitis lingers, movement becomes limited. If not addressed, stiffness can lead to long-term mobility issues.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Guided Stretches
- Therapists introduce gentle stretching exercises to improve mobility without irritating the bursa.
Joint Mobilization
- Hands-on techniques help restore smooth, natural movement in the shoulder.
Posture Corrections
- Learning to move correctly prevents unnecessary stress on the shoulder joint.
Pro Tip
Avoid forcing movements through pain. Slow, controlled progress is key to long-term success.
Step 3: Strengthen the Supporting Muscles
Why It Matters
Weak shoulder muscles can put extra strain on the bursa, increasing the risk of recurring pain. Strengthening the surrounding muscles provides much-needed stability.
How Physical Therapy Helps:
Targeted Exercises
- Simple strengthening movements focus on key muscle groups that support the shoulder joint.
Resistance Band Training
- Low-impact resistance helps rebuild strength without excessive strain.
Core and Upper Back Work
- Strengthening these areas helps maintain proper shoulder alignment and function.
Pro Tip
Focus on proper form rather than heavy resistance. Quality of movement is more important than intensity.
Step 4: Improve Shoulder Mechanics to Prevent Flare-Ups
Why It Matters
Many cases of bursitis stem from poor movement patterns, leading to excessive friction in the shoulder joint. Correcting these issues prevents future pain.
How Physical Therapy Helps:
Movement Assessments
- Therapists analyze how you lift, reach, and carry objects to identify potential issues.
Technique Adjustments
- Small changes in everyday motions—like how you reach overhead—can significantly reduce strain.
Ergonomic Advice
- Proper desk and work setups help minimize shoulder stress, especially for those with sedentary jobs.
Pro Tip
Make small adjustments to daily habits, such as adjusting your sleeping position or switching to a more ergonomic workspace.
Step 5: Create a Long-Term Maintenance Plan
Why It Matters
Bursitis treatment for shoulder recovery doesn’t stop when the pain subsides. Consistent movement and strengthening prevent bursitis from returning.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Personalized Home Exercise Plans
- Patients leave therapy with a set of easy-to-follow exercises to maintain progress.
Activity Modifications
- Therapists guide patients on how to return to sports, work, or hobbies safely.
Regular Check-Ins
- Follow-up sessions ensure continued progress and catch any potential setbacks early.
Pro Tip
Stick to the plan! Consistency is the key to keeping your shoulders strong and pain-free.
Common Bursitis Treatment for Shoulder Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead)
Ignoring Early Symptoms
- Addressing pain early prevents long-term complications. If discomfort lasts more than a few days, seek professional help.
Resting Too Much
- Gentle movement promotes healing. Avoid excessive rest, which can lead to stiffness and muscle weakness.
Skipping Strength Training
- Weak muscles contribute to shoulder problems. Gradually building strength helps prevent future flare-ups.
Returning to Activities Too Soon
- Gradual reintroduction to sports or work ensures a full recovery without reinjury.
Take Control of Your Shoulder Health
Shoulder bursitis doesn’t have to dictate your daily life. With the right approach, pain relief and full mobility are within reach. At Rebound Rehabilitation, our expert physical therapists specialize in bursitis treatment for shoulder pain, helping patients regain strength, prevent future issues, and return to the activities they love.
If shoulder pain is holding you back, don’t wait—take the first step toward recovery today. Contact Rebound Rehabilitation to schedule an evaluation and start your personalized treatment plan!
