Rotator Cuff Disease: Tendinitis & Bursitis
In tendinitis of the shoulder, tendons become inflamed (red, sore, and swollen) from being pinched by parts around the shoulder.
Bursitis occurs when the bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that helps protect the shoulder joint—is inflamed. Bursitis is sometimes caused by disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
It is also caused by playing sports that overuse the shoulder or by jobs with frequent overhead reaching.
Tendinitis and bursitis may occur alone or at the same time. Treatment for tendinitis and bursitis includes:
- Rest
- Ice
- Medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen that reduce pain and swelling
- Ultrasound (gentle sound-wave vibrations) to warm deep tissues and improve blood flow
- Gentle stretching and exercises to build strength
- Injection of corticosteroid drug if the shoulder does not get better
- Surgery, if the shoulder does not get better after 6 to 12 months.
