Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursa Injections

Expanded Guide

A subacromial subdeltoid bursa injection is a targeted, minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic shoulder pain originating from inflammation in the subacromial and subdeltoid bursae. These bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder’s rotator cuff tendons, allowing smooth movement between the tendons and the overlying deltoid muscle. When the bursae become inflamed—a condition known as bursitis—patients can experience significant pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. This inflammation is often caused by repetitive shoulder movements, injuries, or underlying conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis and impingement syndrome. A subacromial subdeltoid bursa injection helps reduce inflammation in the shoulder and relieves associated symptoms.

How the Injection Works

The procedure involves injecting a corticosteroid, typically combined with a local anesthetic, directly into the subacromial and subdeltoid bursae. The corticosteroid works to reduce inflammation in the area, while the anesthetic provides immediate pain relief. This combination allows for both short-term relief and longer-lasting reduction in inflammation, which can alleviate shoulder pain for several weeks to months. To ensure precise placement of the injection, ultrasound guidance is commonly used, which enables the physician to visualize the bursa and guide the needle accurately to the inflamed area.

During the procedure, the patient is usually seated or lying down, and the injection site is cleaned and sterilized. A local anesthetic is applied to the skin to minimize discomfort from the needle. Under ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is then inserted into the subacromial and subdeltoid bursa, and the corticosteroid-anesthetic mixture is injected. The injection itself is brief, often taking only a few minutes, and the entire appointment typically lasts around 15 to 30 minutes. Since it’s an outpatient procedure, patients can go home shortly after and resume most normal activities within a day or two.

Conditions Treated with Subacromial Subdeltoid Bursa Injections

Subacromial subdeltoid bursa injections are commonly used to manage shoulder pain related to rotator cuff tendinitis, shoulder impingement syndrome, and bursitis. Rotator cuff tendinitis occurs when the tendons around the shoulder’s rotator cuff become irritated and inflamed, often due to repetitive movements or overuse. Shoulder impingement syndrome is a condition where the rotator cuff tendons and bursae are compressed by surrounding bone structures during shoulder movements, leading to pain and reduced function. For patients with bursitis, inflammation in the bursae causes pain and stiffness, which can make everyday movements like lifting, reaching, or even sleeping difficult.

Benefits

A subacromial subdeltoid bursa injection offers several valuable benefits for patients experiencing chronic shoulder pain. This injection provides targeted pain relief by reducing inflammation in the subacromial and subdeltoid bursae, addressing shoulder pain caused by bursitis, impingement syndrome, and rotator cuff tendinitis. The corticosteroid in the injection reduces inflammation at its source, providing relief that goes beyond simply masking symptoms. By alleviating pain, the injection allows for improved range of motion and shoulder function, making everyday tasks more comfortable. This minimally invasive procedure takes only a few minutes and typically requires no surgical intervention or lengthy recovery. The local anesthetic used often provides immediate relief, enabling patients to feel more comfortable right after the procedure. The effects of the injection can last for several weeks to months, allowing patients to engage in physical therapy and rehabilitative exercises with minimal discomfort. With ultrasound guidance ensuring accurate needle placement, the injection has a high success rate and low complication risk, making it a safe and effective solution for managing shoulder pain.

Conclusion

A subacromial subdeltoid bursa injection is an effective treatment option for individuals struggling with chronic shoulder pain due to conditions like rotator cuff tendinitis, impingement syndrome, or bursitis. By delivering anti-inflammatory medication directly into the inflamed bursa, this procedure provides targeted relief, reducing pain and improving shoulder function for weeks to months. With ultrasound guidance, the injection is highly accurate and minimally invasive, making it a safe and efficient option for managing shoulder pain when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief. For many, this injection offers a way to regain mobility, participate in physical therapy more comfortably, and enjoy a better quality of life with less shoulder pain.