You have more than 150 bursa in your body. These tiny, fluid containing sacs lubricate and cushion pressure points between your bones and the tendons and muscles near your joints. They help you move without pain. When they become inflamed (bursitis) movement or pressure is painful.
Bursitis may be caused by a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. Other potential causes of bursitis may be sports involving overuse of the shoulder and occupations requiring overhead reaching, most often affects the shoulder, elbow, or hip joint areas.
Physical Therapy Treatment Plan: After careful evaluation by the physical therapist, the first step in treating this condition is to reduce pain and inflammation. Treatments may include: ice/heat, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises will be added gradually.
After your initial prescription for physical therapy is completed, your physician and physical therapist will decide if you need to continue physical therapy or if you will be discharged to a home exercise program.
This information is provided as a learning resource for the benefit of our patients. It is NOT INTENDED to replace personal consultation with your medical professionals.
