Why Is My Shoulder So Sore? It Could Be Bursitis!

Bursitis is a really common cause of persistent shoulder pain. It can cause significant discomfort and limit our ability to perform daily activities. This common condition, characterised by inflammation of the shoulder's bursa, often results from repetitive motions or injury. In this blog post, we will explore what shoulder bursitis entails, its symptoms, and how myotherapy can play a crucial role in its effective treatment.

The shoulder joint is surrounded by small, fluid-filled sacs called bursa, which act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles. With a normal, well-functioning bursa, shoulder movement is smooth, effortless and without pain.
When these bursae become inflamed, it leads to a condition known as bursitis, and it can cause a lot of highly sensitive pain. Repetitive overhead movements or a direct trauma like a fall onto your outstretched arm can cause irritation of the bursa and surrounding tissue, and this can result in pain, tenderness, and limited range of motion. Additionally, factors like muscle imbalances and spending a long time in a position that strains the shoulder can contribute to the development of bursitis.

Bursitis typically feels worse at certain points in the day - the first thing in the morning is often a time of stiffness and increased pain, with that sensation easing somewhat as you begin moving. After a period of inactivity it can become sensitive again, or following overexertion or repetitive activities. Inflammation makes the area feel irritated, stiff, achey, and sore.

Myotherapy is a form of manual therapy that targets the soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. As Myotherapists, we aim to relieve your pain, restore your mobility, and promote healing through a variety of techniques, tailored to your specific needs. In the case of shoulder bursitis, myotherapy can provide several benefits.

1. Pain Relief: Myotherapists use hands-on techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, dry needling, cupping and joint mobilisation to alleviate pain and reduce muscle tension associated with bursitis. These techniques help increase blood circulation, promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Reducing strain on the bursa and its surrounding soft tissue can help decrease the pain sensation and speed up the healing process.
2. Muscle Balance and Strengthening: Myotherapy focuses on identifying and addressing muscle imbalances that may contribute to shoulder bursitis. Through targeted exercises and stretching, myotherapists help restore balance and strengthen weakened muscles, reducing stress on the bursa and improving overall shoulder stability. We'll always customise your exercise plan to your current symptoms to make sure that we start at the right level of intensity for you - if we go too hard, too quick it can make things worse not better, so always ask your favourite Myotherapist where to start with your rehab program!
3. Range of Motion Improvement: Restricted range of motion is a common symptom of shoulder bursitis. Myotherapy techniques, including gentle joint mobilisation and stretching, help restore the shoulder's flexibility and mobility. By gradually increasing the joint's range, myotherapy aids in the healing process and prevents further complications.
4. Body Mechanics: Our choice of postures and positions can contribute to shoulder bursitis by placing excessive strain on the shoulder joint. Myotherapists assess and correct muscular imbalances, teaching proper body mechanics to reduce stress on the affected area.
5. Preventative Measures: Myotherapy is not only beneficial during the acute phase of bursitis but also plays a crucial role in preventing its recurrence. Myotherapists educate patients on self-care techniques, such as stretching exercises, ergonomic modifications, and lifestyle modifications, to maintain a healthy shoulder joint.

Shoulder bursitis can be a debilitating condition, limiting our daily activities and causing persistent pain. While traditional treatments focus on symptom management, myotherapy offers a holistic approach to shoulder bursitis treatment. By addressing muscle imbalances, reducing pain and inflammation, and improving range of motion, myotherapy helps individuals regain functionality and prevent future complications. If you're experiencing shoulder bursitis, consulting with our qualified myotherapists can be a valuable step towards finding relief and embarking on the path to recovery. Remember, early intervention and consistent treatment are key to effectively managing shoulder bursitis and restoring your quality of life.

Book a time with our wonderful myotherapists or phone our clinic on 03 8204 0970 for more information.