When Should I Start Working Out Again With Shoulder Bursitis?

Bursitis can affect almost any joint in the body, but it is most common in the shoulder, according to Arthritis M.D. Shoulder bursitis is painful, and it can often prevent patients from enjoying the activities they love. Returning to working out and playing sports are often a patient's priority following shoulder bursitis.

Subacromial Bursa

Bursas are small fluid-filled sacs located throughout the joints of the human body. Bursas lubricate and cushion muscles and tendons to allow smooth, painless movement of joints. In the shoulder, the subacromial bursa can become irritated when the rotator cuff tendons are impinged between two bones in the shoulder -- the acromion and the humerus -- as noted in an article written by the staff of Cedars-Sinai Orthopedic Center.

Causes of Subacromial Bursitis

Physical therapist Mark Dutton explains in "Orthopaedic Examination, Evaluation, and Intervention" that the subacromial bursa can be impinged in the shoulder joint because of numerous causes, including the shape of the bones, instability or weakness of the shoulder joint and shoulder blade, and even poor posture. These potential causes are usually not noticed until the patient overuses the shoulder. Examples of overuse include throwing, painting or reaching overhead for prolonged periods of time.

Treatment Options

Several health care providers can treat shoulder bursitis. A physician may prescribe oral anti-inflammatory medication or inject steroids into the joint. In more severe cases, a physician may perform surgery to repair the damage. A physical therapist can prescribe exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and any other muscles that are weak. This can help a patient return to activity quicker and even prevent future injuries, according to Cedars-Sinai Orthopedic Center.

Exercises

Some types of workouts never have to be stopped when a patient has shoulder bursitis, for example, running, biking or lifting with the legs. Lifting overhead can potentially lead to a reoccurence of bursitis, so stop immediately if an activity is painful. Any overhead, repetitive activity should be avoided until the rotator cuff has been strengthened and the patient can reach overhead without pain, Dutton says. Dutton goes on to list, in particular, swimming, throwing and military press as potentially damaging exercises early in the recovery process.