How Do I Know If I Have Shoulder Arthritis or Bursitis? Recognizing Symptoms and Finding Treatment in NYC
Shoulder pain affects millions of people each year. An estimated 22.3 million adults in the U.S. report shoulder pain annually, making it the second most common joint complaint. While more common in individuals 45 and older, about 16.3% of people between 18 and 44 also experience shoulder pain.
About 17% of people who seek medical care for shoulder pain have arthritis as the leading cause. Shoulder arthritis, along with another common condition—shoulder bursitis—can make everyday activities difficult.
At Prestige Health and Wellness, our chiropractors, physical therapists, and wellness experts provide personalized treatments to relieve your shoulder pain and help you return to doing what you love.
What is Shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the cartilage in the shoulder joint. It most commonly affects the glenohumeral (GH) joint, the main ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. In some cases, it may also involve the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade.
Types of Shoulder Arthritis
There are several types of shoulder arthritis, each with its own causes and characteristics:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, OA is the most common type of shoulder arthritis. It develops over time as the cartilage breaks down, causing pain and stiffness. OA typically affects the acromioclavicular (AC) joint but can also affect the glenohumeral (GH) joint.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and damage. It tends to affect both shoulder joints symmetrically and may eventually cause deformity.
- Posttraumatic Arthritis: This type occurs after a shoulder injury, such as a fracture or dislocation. The trauma causes changes to the cartilage and bone, eventually leading to arthritis.
- Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy: This type of arthritis develops after a long-standing rotator cuff tear, which affects the shoulder’s stability. Without proper tendon function, the bones in the shoulder can rub against each other, causing arthritis.
- Avascular Necrosis (AVN): AVN happens when the blood supply to the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) is disrupted, causing bone death and joint degeneration. AVN can be caused by trauma, excessive alcohol use, or certain medications.
What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?
Common symptoms of shoulder arthritis include:
- Pain: Shoulder pain is typically felt with movement and may worsen at night or in cold weather. The pain can be deep in the joint and may radiate to the side or back of the shoulder.
- Limited Range of Motion: As the arthritis progresses, it becomes more challenging to move the shoulder fully. Activities like reaching overhead or lifting objects can become painful or impossible.
- Crepitus: This is a grinding or clicking sound that occurs when the bones in the shoulder rub against each other due to cartilage loss.
- Stiffness: As the joint becomes inflamed, the shoulder becomes stiffer and less mobile, making daily activities harder.
What Causes Shoulder Arthritis?
The causes of shoulder arthritis can vary depending on the type:
- Aging: As you age, the cartilage in the shoulder joint naturally wears down, leading to osteoarthritis.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis cause the body’s immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation and damage.
- Injury: Previous shoulder injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can increase the risk of developing posttraumatic arthritis.
- Genetics: Family history may play a role in developing certain types of arthritis.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Arthritis
When managing shoulder arthritis, nonsurgical treatments are often the first line of defense. These approaches aim to reduce pain, improve joint function, and slow the condition’s progression without requiring invasive procedures. If you’re dealing with shoulder arthritis, several nonsurgical options can help alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life:
Nonsurgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief from severe pain.
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that strain the shoulder is essential for managing symptoms. Modifying daily tasks to reduce shoulder stress can help prevent further irritation.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can reduce inflammation, ease pain, and provide comfort.
What is Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between the bones and soft tissues in the shoulder. When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited shoulder movement.
Types of Shoulder Bursitis
There are several types of shoulder bursitis:
- Chronic Bursitis: This develops gradually over time due to repeated irritation of the bursa. It is often associated with underlying health conditions like gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes.
- Acute Bursitis: This type occurs suddenly and is often the result of an injury, infection, or overuse of the shoulder joint.
- Infected Bursitis: This type of bursitis happens when bacteria infect the bursa, typically following trauma or injury. Without proper treatment, it can result in serious complications.
What Causes of Shoulder Bursitis?
Shoulder bursitis is typically caused by:
- Overuse: Repetitive overhead motions, like lifting or throwing, can irritate the bursa.
- Injury: Trauma to the shoulder, such as a fall, can lead to bursitis.
- Repetitive Activities: Jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive shoulder movements, like painting or certain sports, can increase the risk.
- Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the development of bursitis.
In rare cases, bursitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, especially if an open wound is present near the affected area.
Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis
The symptoms of shoulder bursitis include:
- Pain: The shoulder becomes sore, particularly when moving the arm or pressing on the area.
- Swelling: The bursa fills with fluid, causing visible swelling.
- Redness and Warmth: The skin over the inflamed bursa may appear red and feel warm.
- Limited Range of Motion: Moving the arm without pain can become difficult.
Sometimes, a fever may accompany bursitis, especially if an infection causes it.
Preventing Shoulder Bursitis
To reduce the risk of shoulder bursitis, try the following:
- Take Breaks: If your daily tasks involve repetitive shoulder motions, take frequent breaks to give your shoulder time to rest.
- Use Proper Technique: Whether lifting or throwing, using the correct form can help reduce stress on the shoulder.
- Strengthen the Shoulder: Regular exercises can improve shoulder strength and flexibility, helping prevent injury.
Is there a Connection Between Shoulder Arthritis and Bursitis?
Shoulder arthritis and bursitis are often related. Arthritis causes inflammation in the shoulder joint, which can spread to the surrounding tissues, including the bursae (fluid-filled sacs). In conditions like osteoarthritis, the breakdown of cartilage in the joint can also damage the bursae, leading to bursitis.
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can also contribute to the development of bursitis. Because arthritis causes pain and discomfort, people may adjust their movements, putting additional strain on the bursae and leading to further irritation and inflammation.
How to Know if You Have Shoulder Arthritis or Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, with two of the most common being shoulder arthritis and shoulder bursitis. While these conditions share similar symptoms, they have distinct characteristics that can help you identify which one might be affecting you. Here’s how you can tell the difference:
Signs of Shoulder Arthritis
- Gradual Onset of Pain: Pain typically develops slowly and worsens over time.
- Pain After Inactivity: Pain is often worse after resting, such as in the morning or after sitting for an extended period.
- Loss of Range of Motion: Difficulty raising the arm overhead or moving it freely due to stiffness and pain.
- Pain During Specific Activities: Pain increases with activities like lifting heavy objects, reaching across the body, or overhead movements.
Shoulder Bursitis: Key Symptoms
- Pain at the Top and Outside of the Shoulder: Pain is often located on the top and outer portion of the shoulder.
- Pain Triggered by Movement or Repetitive Motions: Pain may occur with specific or repetitive motions, like throwing or lifting.
- Tenderness When Pressure is Applied: The affected area may feel tender to the touch, especially when pressure is applied.
- Redness and Warmth: Inflammation may cause redness and warmth around the shoulder joint.
Key Differences Between Shoulder Arthritis and Bursitis
- Arthritis Affects the Joint, and Bursitis Affects the Bursa: Arthritis impacts the cartilage in the joint, while bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sacs) that cushion the joint.
- Pain Patterns: Arthritis pain typically worsens with inactivity, whereas bursitis pain is more acute during repetitive motions or pressure.
- Onset of Symptoms: Bursitis may develop suddenly, often after an injury or repetitive movement, whereas arthritis pain develops more gradually over time.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of shoulder arthritis or bursitis, it’s important to seek a proper diagnosis to ensure you’re getting the right treatment. Our team at Prestige Health and Wellness specializes in evaluating shoulder conditions and providing targeted solutions. We’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment strategy to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve overall function, helping you get back to your daily activities without discomfort.
A Holistic Treatment Approach to Shoulder Health
We take a holistic approach to shoulder care, offering a range of personalized treatments designed to help you feel your best. Our team combines chiropractic care, physical therapy, and alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage to address your shoulder pain from multiple angles. Whether you’re looking for relief from arthritis, bursitis, or other shoulder issues, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Pain and Mobility
Our chiropractic team takes a comprehensive approach to treating shoulder arthritis, bursitis, and other shoulder conditions. We work to reduce shoulder pain and improve mobility by enhancing joint function and promoting proper spinal alignment. We use a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs, including:
- Spinal Adjustments: Gentle adjustments to reduce nerve irritation and alleviate discomfort.
- Joint Mobilization: Techniques to improve shoulder joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Methods like active release therapy to target muscle tension and inflammation.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Customized exercises to strengthen the shoulder and restore range of motion.
- Hot and Cold Therapy: Effective treatments to manage pain and swelling.
- Posture and Body Mechanics Guidance: Advice to prevent future injury and support recovery.
Physical Therapy for Shoulder Arthritis and Bursitis Relief
Our physical therapists take a holistic approach to treating shoulder conditions, offering a variety of evidence-based treatments, including:
- Manual Therapy: For pain relief, hands-on techniques include joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle movements to improve flexibility and joint health.
- Strengthening Programs: Targeted exercises to build shoulder and rotator cuff strength.
- Stretching and Posture Support: Improving flexibility and promoting better alignment.
- Pain Management Solutions: Ice therapy and activity modifications tailored to your needs.
- Education and Support: Guidance on safe movement and home exercises to maintain progress.
Occupational Therapy for Shoulder Function and Recovery
Our occupational therapists help you regain independence in your daily activities by addressing the challenges posed by shoulder pain. We offer a range of services designed to make daily tasks easier:
- Activity Modification: We teach safe, efficient ways to manage your daily tasks, minimizing strain on your shoulder.
- Progressive Strengthening: Tailored programs to rebuild strength and improve mobility in the shoulder joint.
- At-Home Exercise Plans: Customized exercises to support your recovery and keep you on track with your rehabilitation.
Massage Therapy for Shoulder Pain and Muscle Tension Relief
Massage therapy is a soothing and effective way to alleviate shoulder pain. Our licensed massage therapists use a variety of techniques to reduce tension and improve mobility:
- Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on deeper muscle layers to relieve chronic muscle tension.
- Swedish Massage: Promotes relaxation and reduces overall muscle tension.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Targets specific areas of muscle tightness to release knots and discomfort.
- Myofascial Release: Loosens fascial restrictions, improving flexibility and circulation in the shoulder area.
Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain and Inflammation Relief
Our skilled acupuncturists offer treatments for shoulder pain, inflammation, and muscle tightness. Acupuncture at Prestige Health and Wellness can help with:
- Pain Relief: Stimulating endorphins to reduce discomfort naturally.
- Inflammation Control: Targeting affected areas to decrease swelling and promote healing.
- Muscle Relaxation: Easing tight muscles to improve shoulder mobility.
Find Relief from Shoulder Pain and Arthritis Today
At Prestige Health and Wellness, we specialize in personalized, holistic care to help you manage and alleviate the discomfort caused by shoulder pain, arthritis, and other shoulder conditions.
Our experienced team is dedicated to working with you every step of the way to create a customized treatment plan that targets your specific needs. Whether you need chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy, or alternative treatments like acupuncture, we have the expertise to help you find lasting relief and improve your shoulder function.
Take control of your shoulder pain and get back to doing what you love. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward better shoulder health. Visit us at any of our four NYC locations—Hudson Yards, the Financial District, Chelsea, or Nomad—and take the first step toward feeling your best.
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