Bursitis of the Shoulder Treated in Louisville, KY

Athletic woman rubbing her painful shoulder

A bursa is a tiny, fluid-filled sac that cushions a joint and reduces friction between bones and soft tissues during movement. The shoulder is one of the most common joints affected by bursitis, which occurs when a bursa becomes irritated and inflamed. Usually a result of repetitive overhead motion, shoulder bursitis can cause painful swelling that impairs movement.

Due to the complexity of the shoulder joint, the evaluation and treatment of shoulder bursitis require highly refined expertise. In Louisville, Kentucky, you can consult with a board-certified orthopedic shoulder surgeon at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. Founded in 1974, our private practice provides comprehensive musculoskeletal care, and each of our providers is an experienced orthopedic subspecialist.

How Is Shoulder Bursitis Treated?

In many cases, shoulder bursitis improves on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, home remedies can be used to improve comfort. Some options include:

Limited rest
Avoidance of movements that worsen symptoms, such as reaching overhead
Ice pack applications
Over-the-counter pain relievers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If further relief is needed, a specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic may suggest a needle aspiration of the bursa fluid or a cortisone injection. Additionally, physical therapy can strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder to ease pain and help prevent a recurrence.

Surgical Treatment for Severe Pain

Sometimes, an inflamed bursa can painfully impinge the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder. In this situation, subacromial decompression may be considered. This minimally invasive procedure involves removing the inflamed bursa along with some nearby bony tissue, if necessary, to create more space for the rotator cuff tendons.

If you would like to explore your treatment options for bursitis of the shoulder, contact Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic today to request a consultation with a shoulder specialist in Louisville, KY. Our goal is to keep active bodies in motion, and you can count on us to help you return to the activities you enjoy as quickly as possible.

What our patients are saying

Shaun H.

I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.

Joanna S.

Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.

Sara G.

Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!

Juanita S.

The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.

Erin Z.

This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!

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