Recommendations for Bursitis and Tendinitis

โœ… Top Recommendations for Bursitis & Tendinitis

๐ŸงŠ 1. Reduce Inflammation

  • Ice the affected area 15โ€“20 minutes, 2โ€“3 times daily (especially in the first week).

  • Take NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) if needed and approved by your doctor.

  • Rest and avoid aggravating movements (especially repetitive or overhead motions).


๐Ÿง˜ 2. Gentle Mobility Exercises

  • Start with pain-free range of motion stretches.

  • Avoid forced stretching โ€” think "gentle" and "fluid" motion.

  • Pendulum swings, wall slides, and shoulder rolls are great to start.


๐Ÿ‹๏ธโ€โ™‚๏ธ 3. Strengthen Supporting Muscles

  • Use light resistance bands once inflammation decreases.

  • Focus on rotator cuff, scapular stabilizers, and core (postural support).

  • Prioritize form over weight. Stop if pain worsens during or after exercise.


๐Ÿ›๏ธ 4. Support During Sleep

  • Sleep on your back or unaffected side.

  • Place a small pillow under the affected arm to reduce strain on the shoulder joint.


๐Ÿงโ€โ™‚๏ธ 5. Fix Posture & Ergonomics

  • Keep shoulders relaxed, not rounded forward.

  • For desk work:

    • Elbows at 90ยฐ

    • Screen at eye level

    • Use an ergonomic chair or standing desk if possible


๐Ÿ’‰ 6. Seek Medical Intervention If:

  • Symptoms persist beyond 3โ€“4 weeks despite home care

  • There's sudden weakness, clicking, or inability to move the joint

  • Swelling is intense or warm (could indicate infectious bursitis)

  • Consider:

    • Corticosteroid injection

    • Physical therapy referral

    • Imaging (e.g., ultrasound or MRI) if a tear or chronic issue is suspected


โŒ What to Avoid

๐Ÿšซ AvoidWhy
Repetitive overhead liftingAggravates both bursa and tendons
Sleeping directly on affected shoulderIncreases compression and pain
Heavy lifting or sudden jerking motionsMay cause tearing or prolong inflammation
Ignoring pain or โ€œpushing through itโ€Delays healing and may worsen damage
Prolonged immobilityLeads to stiffness and muscle loss

โœ… Bonus: Natural/Alternative Support

  • Turmeric/Curcumin supplements (anti-inflammatory)

  • Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish oil)

  • Massage therapy (once inflammation is down)

  • Acupuncture (may help with chronic pain/tightness)

Tim has been interviewed by the BBC and has made Shoulder and Back Pain advice videos for the National Health Service.

Watch this Free Presentation

by  Tim Allardyce, BSc (Hons) DO MCSP SRP
Professional Physical Therapist
Registered Osteopath


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