Shoulder bursitis is a common condition characterized by aching, swelling and/or acute pain in the shoulder joint when it is moved or pressure is applied. The cause of shoulder bursitis is irritation or inflammation of the bursa. The bursa are small, fluid-filled sacs that provide padding to the shoulder tissues and help facilitate joint mobility. If you are experiencing shoulder discomfort and tenderness, you may be curious about what kind of doctor treats shoulder bursitis.
What Kind of Doctor Treats Shoulder Bursitis?
There are a number of medical professionals who might play a part in the treatment of shoulder bursitis, including a sports medicine physician, an orthopedic surgeon and/or a physical therapist. While the symptoms of shoulder bursitis can often be successfully resolved without surgery, there are some cases in which an inflamed bursa will need to be surgically treated in order for a patient to feel relief.
An orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine is the best care provider for shoulder bursitis. Because this medical professional has the skills and training necessary to provide all types of shoulder bursitis treatment, the patient will avoid having to visit a different specialist in the event that surgery is needed.
A Few Possible Treatment Options for Shoulder Bursitis
Now that you know what kind of doctor treats shoulder bursitis most effectively, we would like to discuss a few treatment options which may be recommended for this condition. As previously stated, many cases of shoulder bursitis can be well managed using conservative methods. First-line treatments for shoulder bursitis include:
- – The RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation)
- – Physical therapy
- – Corticosteroid injections
- – Antibiotics (if infection is present)
As with any joint issue, the right treatment for shoulder bursitis will vary depending on individual factors. These include the patient’s activity level and the severity of their symptoms.
Dr. Soffer Excels in the Treatment of Acute Shoulder Pain
If you are experiencing lingering shoulder discomfort, you may be suffering from bursitis or another shoulder condition. Fortunately, you can depend on Dr. Stephen Soffer to correctly identify the cause of your acute shoulder pain and suggest a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
Dedicated to helping his patients heal as promptly as possible, Dr. Soffer offers all the latest and most advanced shoulder care options, with a focus on minimally invasive treatments. If you are ready to explore treatment options with Dr. Soffer, please call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an appointment.
