Non-Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Bursitis
January 21, 2026
Shoulder pain can interfere with nearly every aspect of daily life—from lifting your arm to sleeping comfortably. One common cause of shoulder discomfort is shoulder bursitis, a condition marked by inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint. While severe cases may require surgical intervention, most people experience significant relief through non-surgical treatment options.
Understanding your conservative care options can help reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent recurrence.
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
The shoulder contains several bursae that reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. When a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed—often due to overuse, injury, or repetitive motions—it can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain when lifting or reaching overhead
- Shoulder stiffness or weakness
- Discomfort when lying on the affected side
- Swelling or tenderness around the joint
Effective Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Activity Modification and Rest
Reducing activities that aggravate shoulder pain is often the first step. Avoiding repetitive overhead movements allows inflammation to calm and prevents further irritation.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a key role in recovery. A personalized program may include:
- Stretching to improve flexibility
- Strengthening exercises for shoulder stability
- Postural correction to reduce joint stress
These exercises help restore function while lowering the risk of future flare-ups.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may help reduce pain and swelling. These medications are typically used short-term and under medical guidance.
4. Corticosteroid Injections
When pain persists, targeted corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation directly within the bursa. While effective, these injections are generally limited in frequency to protect joint health.
5. Regenerative Medicine Therapies
Innovative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may support the body’s natural healing process by delivering concentrated growth factors to injured tissues. These therapies aim to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair without surgery.
6. Heat and Cold Therapy
Cold therapy can help reduce swelling during acute flare-ups, while heat may improve blood flow and relieve stiffness during recovery. Alternating between the two is often beneficial.
When to Seek Medical Care
If shoulder pain lasts longer than a few weeks, worsens over time, or limits your ability to perform daily activities, professional evaluation is important. Imaging studies and a thorough exam can help rule out related conditions such as rotator cuff injuries or tendon tears.
Finding Relief Without Surgery
For most people, shoulder bursitis improves with conservative care. A comprehensive, non-surgical approach not only relieves pain but also addresses the underlying causes of inflammation—helping patients return to daily life with confidence and comfort.
If shoulder pain is holding you back, exploring non-surgical treatment options may be the first step toward lasting relief.
