Exercises for shoulder bursitis: what to know

Exercises for shoulder bursitis should be gentle, comfortable and progressed gradually as irritation settles. Early movement may include pendulum swings and easy shoulder motions within a comfortable range; forcing overhead lifting or training through sharp pain can increase irritation.

A bursa is a small fluid-filled cushion near a joint. When the shoulder bursa is irritated, reaching overhead, lying on that side or repeated lifting may hurt. The goal is to keep the shoulder moving without repeatedly compressing the sore area. Swelling, warmth or marked tenderness may need assessment; read more about Joint Swelling.

Start with a relaxed pendulum: support yourself with the other hand, let the affected arm hang, and make small forward, backward and circular movements. Add slow assisted elevation using a stick or the opposite hand only if it remains comfortable. Later, a clinician may introduce shoulder-blade control and rotator-cuff strengthening with light resistance. Rest between sessions, avoid painful repetitions, and reduce the activity that triggered symptoms. A physiotherapist can tailor the range and load. Medicines or an injection may be discussed alongside rehabilitation; see Anti-Inflammatory Medication and Cortisone Injection.

Arrange an examination if pain is worsening, movement is becoming more restricted, or symptoms are not settling with activity modification. Seek prompt care for a hot, very swollen or red shoulder, fever, sudden severe pain, a new deformity, or inability to use the arm. Fluid removal, called Joint Aspiration, is sometimes considered when a clinician needs to investigate or relieve significant swelling.

Ask which movements are suitable now, how much discomfort is acceptable during and after exercise, and when resistance can increase. You can also ask whether another shoulder problem is contributing and what change should prompt a review.