In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about subacromial subdeltoid bursitis and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
Table of Contents
What is Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursitis?
Subacromial subdeltoid bursitis is a common and often painful condition affecting the shoulder. It occurs when the subacromial and subdeltoid bursae—fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between the rotator cuff tendons and the overlying bone and muscle—become inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement, making everyday activities like reaching, lifting, or even sleeping uncomfortable.
The subacromial bursa sits just below the acromion (the top part of the shoulder blade), while the subdeltoid bursa lies beneath the deltoid muscle. These bursae work together to allow smooth, pain-free movement of the shoulder joint.
Symptoms
- Pain at the top, side, or front of the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm
- Tenderness over the shoulder joint
- Swelling or warmth in the shoulder area
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Reduced range of motion and stiffness
- Pain with overhead activities or reaching behind the back
- Occasional clicking or catching sensation in the shoulder
Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly, often worsening with repetitive use or after an injury.
Causes & Risk Factors
Subacromial subdeltoid bursitis can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Repetitive overhead movements: Common in sports (swimming, tennis) and certain jobs (painting, construction).
- Shoulder injuries or trauma: Falls, direct blows, or sudden jerking motions.
- Poor posture or muscle imbalances: Rounded shoulders or weak rotator cuff muscles increase risk.
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears: These often coexist with bursitis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions: Systemic inflammation can affect the bursa.
- Age-related degeneration: Wear and tear over time.
- Calcium deposits: Calcific tendinitis can irritate the bursa.
- Diabetes and metabolic conditions: These can increase the risk of shoulder problems.
Middle-aged adults, athletes, and people with physically demanding jobs are at higher risk1.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of subacromial subdeltoid bursitis is based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging. Your clinician will:
- Ask about your symptoms, activities, and any recent injuries
- Examine your shoulder for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion
- Perform special tests to distinguish bursitis from rotator cuff tears or impingement
- Order imaging (ultrasound or MRI) if needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other causes
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing chronic pain and stiffness.
Why Does Shoulder Bursitis Hurt?
The pain of subacromial subdeltoid bursitis is caused by inflammation and swelling of the bursa, which increases pressure in the tight space beneath the acromion. This can irritate nearby nerves and tendons, especially during arm elevation or rotation. If left untreated, the inflammation can spread, leading to more severe pain and even frozen shoulder.
Best Exercises for Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursitis
Exercise is a cornerstone of recovery. The right exercises can reduce pain, restore mobility, and strengthen the shoulder to prevent recurrence. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.
1. Pendulum Exercise
- Lean forward, support yourself with the opposite arm on a table. Let the affected arm hang and gently swing it in small circles. Repeat for 1-2 minutes.
2. Shoulder Blade Squeezes
- Sit or stand upright. Squeeze your shoulder blades together, hold for 5 seconds, and relax. Repeat 10-15 times.
3. Wall Crawls
- Face a wall, use your fingers to “crawl” your hand up the wall as high as comfortable. Hold for a few seconds, then return. Repeat 10 times.
4. External Rotation with Band
- Attach a resistance band to a door handle. Hold the band with your elbow at your side, bent 90 degrees. Rotate your forearm outward, hold, and return. Repeat 10-15 times.
5. Isometric Shoulder Abduction
- Stand with your arm at your side. Press your arm outward against a wall without moving your shoulder. Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times.
6. Sleeper Stretch
- Lie on your side with the affected shoulder down. With your elbow at 90 degrees, gently press your forearm toward the bed. Hold for 20 seconds, repeat 3 times.
7. Scapular Stabilization
- Perform exercises like rows or scapular retractions with a resistance band to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder blade.
Tip: Avoid exercises that cause sharp pain. Progress gradually as symptoms improve. Consistency is key for long-term recovery2.
Treatments for Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursitis
In addition to exercise, several treatments can help manage subacromial subdeltoid bursitis:
- Rest and activity modification: Avoid activities that aggravate symptoms.
- Ice therapy: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times daily to reduce inflammation.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): For pain and swelling, as advised by your doctor.
- Physical therapy: Tailored rehabilitation to restore movement and strength.
- Corticosteroid injections: For short-term relief in severe cases.
- Shockwave therapy: May help chronic or resistant cases.
- Prolotherapy: See below for details.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat subacromial subdeltoid bursitis.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits3.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with subacromial subdeltoid bursitis.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of subacromial subdeltoid bursitis, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Prolotherapy for Chronic Shoulder Pain
Background: A 48-year-old office worker with persistent shoulder pain diagnosed as subacromial subdeltoid bursitis failed to improve with physiotherapy and NSAIDs.
Treatment: After three prolotherapy sessions at ProHealth Clinic, pain reduced by 80% and full range of motion was restored within 10 weeks.
Outcome: At 6-month follow-up, the patient remained pain-free and had returned to all normal activities.
Case Study 2: Athlete’s Recovery
Background: A 35-year-old tennis player experienced recurrent shoulder pain.
Treatment: After a combination of targeted exercises and prolotherapy, she returned to competitive play within 12 weeks.
Outcome: No recurrence at 6-month follow-up, and improved performance due to better shoulder strength and stability.
Case Study 3: Rapid Relief in a Manual Worker
Background: A 54-year-old builder developed acute subacromial subdeltoid bursitis after a fall.
Treatment: Early intervention with prolotherapy and physiotherapy.
Outcome: Returned to work within 4 weeks, with full pain resolution and no further episodes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does subacromial subdeltoid bursitis take to heal?
Most people recover within 6-12 weeks with appropriate treatment. Chronic cases may take longer, especially if underlying issues are not addressed.
Is exercise safe with subacromial subdeltoid bursitis?
Yes, gentle exercises are recommended to restore mobility and strength. Avoid movements that cause sharp pain.
What is the success rate of prolotherapy for subacromial subdeltoid bursitis?
Clinical studies and experience show high success rates, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function3.
Can subacromial subdeltoid bursitis return after treatment?
Recurrence is possible if underlying causes (e.g., poor posture, muscle weakness) are not addressed. Prolotherapy aims to provide a permanent solution by treating the root cause.
When should I see a specialist?
If pain persists despite self-care, or if you have difficulty using your arm, see a specialist for assessment and advanced treatment options.
What happens if subacromial subdeltoid bursitis is left untreated?
Untreated bursitis can lead to chronic pain, reduced shoulder function, and even frozen shoulder. Early intervention is important for optimal recovery4.
Is surgery ever needed for subacromial subdeltoid bursitis?
Surgery is rarely required. Most cases respond well to conservative treatments, including prolotherapy. Surgery may be considered only if there is a structural problem or severe, persistent symptoms.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let subacromial subdeltoid bursitis control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
Get in Touch
- Phone: Call Us Now
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All clinics offer the same award-winning prolotherapy treatment with convenient appointment times, including evenings and weekends.
References
- Mitchell C, Adebajo A, Hay E, Carr A. Shoulder pain: diagnosis and management in primary care. BMJ. 2005;331(7525):1124-1128. View Study
- Kuhn JE. Exercise in the treatment of rotator cuff impingement: a systematic review and a synthesized evidence-based rehabilitation protocol. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2009;18(1):138-160. View Study
- Rabago D, Slattengren A, Zgierska A. Prolotherapy in Primary Care Practice. Prim Care. 2010;37(1):65-80. View Study
- Shields E, Iannotti JP. Subacromial Bursitis: Diagnosis and Management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 1999;7(2):86-94. View Study
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Bursitis of the Shoulder. Patient Resource
- Stenhouse G, Sookur P, Watson M. Prolotherapy in the management of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review. Br J Sports Med. 2013;47(7):379-383. View Study