Help for Shoulder Tendinitis and Bursitis

Tendinitis and bursitis of the shoulder are conditions characterized by a painful inflammation, but the areas of inflammation are different for each. Either the tendon, which attaches muscle to bone, or the bursa, which lubricates and cushions the joints, is affected. Whichever condition plagues the shoulder, it usually is caused by a repetitive overuse, prompting the tendon or bursa to become irritated and eventually inflamed. Regardless of whether you suffer from tendinitis or bursitis of the shoulder, the treatments are virtually the same.

Self-Care

• While there are a number of treatments available for both tendinitis and bursitis, most cases respond favorably to simple self-care measures. As soon as you feel the pain or tenderness associated with either condition, ice the shoulder. Icing helps to reduce swelling within the tendon or bursa and reduces the corresponding pain. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes.

  Though icing effectively reduces inflammation, wrap the affected shoulder with a bandage or shoulder-stabilizing device. Either one compresses the area to aid in reducing inflammation, and also supports and immobilizes the shoulder to protect the tendon or bursa from additional irritation or injury.

  With both tendinitis and bursitis, rest the shoulder from time to time throughout the day to promote healing. For the most part, time is an effective method of treatment, so give yourself time to rest and you'll soon be back to full health.

  As soon as you feel some relief, start to gently stretch the area, as you want to regain the flexibility and full range of motion in your shoulder. This applies for either tendinitis or bursitis.

  Additionally, heat can be used to treat bursitis. Follow the same guidelines as icing (no more than 20 minutes); heat alleviates pain as well as stiffness resulting from the injured bursa.

Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

• Another effective form of treatment for tendinitis or bursitis involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. In mild to moderate cases, take non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to help with swelling and pain. In more moderate to severe cases, corticosteroids can be used to reduce the swelling and pain.

Physical Therapy

• Though you already may be stretching and strengthening the shoulder, consult with a medical professional to determine whether you need physical therapy. Sometimes, guided exercises and resistance training can help return your shoulder to health.

Surgery

• It isn't unheard of for some people with tendinitis or bursitis to need surgery. This entails either the repair of the tendon or the draining of the bursa, but surgery is fairly rare in both instances. Before a bursa is drained, antibiotics often are administered to clear up an infection.