Shoulder Bursitis

You might first notice shoulder pain when doing simple things like putting something on a shelf or lying on your side at night. If those movements are starting to feel sharp, achy, or stiff then you might be experiencing shoulder bursitis, a common cause of shoulder discomfort.

Why Your Shoulder Hurts

Bursitis happens when a small fluid-filled sac (bursa) becomes irritated and inflamed. In the shoulder, the bursa helps cushion and reduce friction between the tendons and bones. But if it gets inflamed, even simple arm movements can feel painful and restricted.

Here are a few common reasons bursitis can develop:

• Repetitive movements like lifting, reaching, or throwing

• Sudden increase in activity

• Poor posture that affects shoulder mechanics over time such as desk based work or awkwardly sitting holding a phone

• Underlying muscle imbalances or weakness that place extra strain on the joints

Sometimes it comes on after a noticeable incident, but often it’s a slow build from everyday habits that overload the area little by little.

How I Can Help

When you visit VIP Osteopathy, I’ll take a holistic approach at how your shoulder, upper back, neck and elbow are working together, not just the sore spot itself.

Treatment may include:

• Hands-on techniques to reduce inflammation and ease pain

• Improving shoulder movement and alignment to reduce friction around the bursa

• Addressing nearby areas (eg, upper back or ribs) that may be contributing to the problem

• Restoring balance through postural awareness and muscle activation

You’ll also walk away with a tailored plan to support recovery beyond the clinic. That might include:

• Targeted rehab exercises to build strength and stability

• Strategies for modifying movements during daily tasks

• Advice on when to rest, when to move, and how to avoid flare-ups

What You Can Start Doing Now

• Avoid pushing through sharp pain, take it as a sign that your shoulder’s asking for a breather

• Limit overhead activities (like hanging washing or reaching into high cupboards) for now

• Try using a small cushion or towel under your arm when lying down for extra support

• Try applying a cold pack after activity to help with inflammation

• Keep gently moving within a comfortable range to help prevent stiffness

Shoulder bursitis can be frustrating, especially when it limits sleeping or simple daily tasks. By taking the time to understand what’s going on, we can work together to try and help restore ease and function to how your shoulder moves.