Relieving Shoulder Pain with Subdeltoid Bursa Injections
Shoulder pain can significantly impact daily life, limiting mobility and making even simple tasks challenging. At Cahaba Pain and Spine Care, we specialize in helping patients find effective solutions for chronic and acute pain. One such solution for shoulder pain is the subdeltoid bursa injection.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
The shoulder joint is a complex structure that relies on a delicate balance of bones, muscles, tendons, and bursae to function properly. When this balance is disrupted, pain can result. Some common causes of shoulder pain include:
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues, often caused by repetitive movements or injury.
Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or inflammation in the tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint.
Arthritis: Degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often due to overuse.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can limit range of motion.
Among these conditions, bursitis is a frequent culprit, and it’s where subdeltoid bursa injections can be particularly effective.
What Is a Subdeltoid Bursa Injection?
A subdeltoid bursa injection is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate inflammation and pain in the subdeltoid bursa. This bursa is located beneath the deltoid muscle, providing a cushion between the muscle and the shoulder joint.
The injection typically contains a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid:
Local Anesthetic: Provides immediate pain relief by numbing the affected area.
Corticosteroid: Reduces inflammation over time, addressing the root cause of pain.
The Procedure
The subdeltoid bursa injection is performed in a clinical setting and involves the following steps:
Assessment: Your provider will evaluate your symptoms and may use imaging (such as ultrasound) to locate the affected bursa accurately.
Preparation: The area is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
Injection: Using a fine needle, the medication is delivered directly into the subdeltoid bursa.
Aftercare: Patients are typically able to resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, although strenuous activities should be avoided for a few days.
Benefits of Subdeltoid Bursa Injections
Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant reduction in pain, allowing them to move more freely.
Improved Mobility: By reducing inflammation, the injection can restore range of motion.
Minimally Invasive: The procedure is quick, with minimal downtime and no need for surgery.
Targeted Treatment: Delivers medication directly to the source of pain for effective results.
Complementary to Other Treatments: Can be combined with physical therapy or other interventions for a comprehensive approach to pain management.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain that has not responded to other treatments, a subdeltoid bursa injection may be an option. At Cahaba Pain and Spine Care, we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs.