Arm & Shoulder Bursitis: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
Persistent shoulder pain can interfere with everything from getting dressed to reaching for a shelf or even sleeping comfortably. For many people, that ache may not come from a muscle or tendon injury—it may be bursitis. At Macomb Hand Surgery, board-certified shoulder doctor Dr. Uzma Rehman helps patients tunderstand and treat shoulder bursitis, restoring strength and mobility through advanced, personalized care.
Bursitis develops when small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae become inflamed. These sacs cushion the joints and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. When they swell, they cause pain and limit movement. Dr. Rehman, an experienced shoulder doctor serving Macomb County, offers accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment options to relieve shoulder pain and prevent future flare-ups.
Shoulder Doctor Overview
As a leading shoulder doctor in Macomb County, Dr. Rehman explains that bursitis most commonly affects the shoulder because it’s one of the body’s most active and complex joints. Shoulder pain often arises in the subacromial bursa—a sac located between the shoulder blade and the upper arm bone. When this bursa becomes irritated from overuse, repetitive motion, or injury, the result is painful inflammation that can make even simple arm movements difficult.
Dr. Rehman’s approach as a shoulder doctor is to identify whether bursitis is the sole cause of shoulder pain or if other conditions, such as rotator cuff injuries or tendonitis, are also contributing. This careful evaluation ensures that patients receive a complete and accurate diagnosis before treatment begins.
Shoulder Pain Symptoms
Shoulder pain caused by bursitis often develops gradually. Many patients describe a dull ache that worsens when lifting the arm overhead or lying on the affected side. The shoulder may feel stiff, weak, or tender to the touch. In some cases, swelling is visible, and patients may experience reduced range of motion.
At Macomb Hand Surgery, shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman helps patients differentiate bursitis-related shoulder pain from other common issues such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears. By pinpointing the source, she can create a treatment plan that targets inflammation and restores proper joint movement.
Shoulder Pain Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam. Dr. Rehman may press on specific areas of the shoulder to locate tenderness and evaluate how far the joint can move before pain begins. If further confirmation is needed, imaging such as ultrasound or MRI can reveal fluid buildup or swelling in the bursa.
For patients with chronic shoulder pain or recurring bursitis, Dr. Rehman may perform additional tests to rule out infection or underlying joint damage. Early diagnosis by an experienced shoulder doctor helps ensure that treatment begins before the condition worsens.
Causes of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder bursitis can stem from several causes. Dr. Rehman frequently sees bursitis develop from repetitive movements such as lifting, throwing, or reaching overhead. Occupations and sports that place continuous stress on the shoulder joint can irritate the bursa, leading to inflammation.
Age-related wear, arthritis, or injury can also trigger bursitis and chronic shoulder pain. As a shoulder doctor, Dr. Rehman emphasizes that posture, muscle weakness, and shoulder instability may increase the likelihood of developing bursitis. Identifying and addressing these contributing factors is key to long-term recovery.
Shoulder Pain Treatments
At Macomb Hand Surgery, shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman offers both conservative and advanced treatment options for bursitis. In many cases, initial care includes rest, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications. Applying ice packs several times a day can also reduce swelling and discomfort.
For more persistent shoulder pain, Dr. Rehman may recommend corticosteroid injections to calm inflammation or physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility. These treatments are designed to relieve pain while preventing future flare-ups of bursitis.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Recovery from shoulder bursitis takes time and consistent care. Under the supervision of an experienced shoulder doctor like Dr. Rehman, most of our Macomb County patients see improvement within a few weeks. Structured physical therapy focuses on stretching tight muscles, strengthening the rotator cuff, and improving posture—all of which reduce strain on the shoulder joint.
Dr. Rehman’s goal as a shoulder doctor is to restore patients’ mobility while preventing recurrence of shoulder pain. Gradual return to normal activities ensures lasting relief and better shoulder function.
When to See a Shoulder Doctor
If shoulder pain persists beyond a few weeks or interferes with daily activities, it’s time to see a shoulder doctor. At her Macomb County practice, Dr. Rehman advises patients not to ignore chronic pain, as untreated bursitis can lead to stiffness or even frozen shoulder.
By seeking early care from a board-certified shoulder doctor, patients can avoid complications and enjoy faster recovery. Dr. Rehman provides thorough evaluation and evidence-based treatment for both acute and chronic shoulder pain.
Preventing Shoulder Pain
Prevention plays an important role in avoiding bursitis and chronic shoulder pain. Dr. Rehman teaches patients proper stretching, posture, and strengthening exercises to keep the shoulder joint stable. Taking breaks during repetitive activities and avoiding heavy lifting can also reduce strain.
As a shoulder doctor dedicated to long-term wellness, Dr. Rehman at Macomb Hand Surgery helps patients understand how daily habits affect joint health and how to maintain pain-free movement through simple adjustments.
Shoulder Doctor | Macomb County
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain or suspect bursitis, board-certified shoulder doctor Dr. Uzma Rehman at Macomb Hand Surgery can help. Serving patients throughout Macomb County, Dr. Rehman provides expert diagnosis and treatment for all forms of bursitis and shoulder pain.
At Macomb Hand Surgery, patients receive compassionate care focused on restoring comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Don’t wait for shoulder pain to limit your movement—schedule an appointment today with trusted shoulder doctor Dr. Uzma Rehman in Macomb County and take the first step toward lasting relief.
