Scapulothoracic bursitis, also known as snapping scapula syndrome, is when the bursa sacs between your shoulder blade and rib cage get inflamed. This condition is often accompanied by a painful grating or snapping feeling in your shoulder.
Here, I will go over the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and non-surgical and surgical treatments for this condition.
What is scapulothoracic bursitis?
Scapulothoracic bursitis is a condition that affects the small bursa sacs that allow the scapula to move smoothly against the rib cage.
When the bursa sacs become inflamed, you may get grating, grinding, or popping sensations that will interfere with your daily activities. You may also find that simple movements become painful.
The inflammation is usually caused by repetitive motion or strain on the shoulder. So whether you’re throwing a ball or reaching for something on a high shelf, you may feel stiffness and soreness. And of course, the anatomy of your shoulder plays a role in this.
The scapula articulates with the upper arm bone and collarbone to allow for smooth movement. But when something goes wrong, you can end up with significant shoulder pain.
Symptoms of Scapulothoracic Bursitis
Now let’s talk about the symptoms. One of the most common symptoms you may notice is pain around the shoulder blade. This pain can be a dull ache or sharp, intense pain, especially when you move your shoulder.
And that snapping or grinding feeling? It can be downright scary.
You can also experience:
- A constant dull ache in the shoulder blade area
- Snapping or popping sounds during shoulder movement
- A grating sensation in the shoulder joint
- Pain that gets worse with physical activity or repetitive motions
Causes and Risk Factors
Well, it’s usually repetitive motion and shoulder injuries. Activities like throwing, swimming, or certain jobs can put strain on the shoulder joint and cause the inflammation.
And let’s not forget weak muscles beneath the scapula; when they’re not doing their job, the scapula can end up too close to the rib cage and cause friction.
Other risk factors:
- Certain anatomical variations like spinal deformities
- Previous shoulder injuries or trauma
- Activities that involve repetitive shoulder motion
Now that you know the causes, you can take steps to protect your shoulder. Modifying your routine and strengthening those scapular muscles can make a big difference.
Diagnosing Scapulothoracic Bursitis
Diagnosing scapulothoracic bursitis involves a full medical history and physical exam by a shoulder specialist.
The goal is to figure out what’s causing your shoulder pain and rule out other things. During the exam your doctor will check your shoulder’s range of motion and look for signs of inflammation.
To confirm the diagnosis, tests like X-rays and MRIs may be ordered. X-rays can show calcifications in the bursa, especially in chronic cases, and MRIs will show soft tissue abnormalities.
Sometimes corticosteroid injections can be used as both treatment and diagnostic tools to reduce inflammation and confirm the diagnosis.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For non-surgical treatment of scapulothoracic bursitis, you can get significant relief. The first steps are usually rest and modifying activities to avoid aggravation.
Ice is your best friend here to reduce inflammation and pain.
Pain management usually involves anti-inflammatory medications. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can help with discomfort, and corticosteroid injections can be used to target the inflammation directly.
Basically, a structured program can strengthen the muscles around the scapula, improve shoulder motion, and get rid of those annoying symptoms.
As you progress, you’ll move from basic wall exercises to more advanced movements, all while staying in touch with your doctor to make sure you’re on the right track.
Read More : Shoulder Pain Diagnosis Chart: Your Guide to Symptoms and Solutions
Surgical Options
If non-surgical options don’t work, then surgical options may be considered. This could be a partial scapulectomy or an arthroscopic bursectomy, which is often used to remove inflamed bursal tissue while leaving the surrounding structures intact.
Surgery is usually reserved for severe cases that don’t respond to conservative management. If you’re considering this route, it’s a good idea to see a shoulder specialist.
They can help you weigh your options and figure out what’s best for you.
So now you know. Now go. See an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in scapulothoracic conditions. They can help.
10 Ways to Prevent Scapulothoracic Bursitis
Prevention is better than cure. Thus, it is better to take some preventive measures to keep your shoulder healthy.
Strengthening the muscles around the scapula can help improve shoulder stability and prevent bursitis. Here are ten tips that can help you keep your shoulder healthy:
- Avoid repetitive overhead movements, which can put a lot of strain on the shoulder joint.
- Make stretching and strengthening exercises a regular part of your routine to keep your scapular muscles strong.
- Maintain good posture. Keeping the scapula and ribcage in proper alignment is important.
- If your work involves repetitive use of the shoulder, use ergonomic tools and techniques to reduce discomfort.
- Take breaks during activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements.
- Shoulder blade squeezes are a good way to strengthen the muscles and improve posture.
- Gradually increase the intensity of your exercises. The key is to avoid overloading the joint.
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet supports overall muscle and joint health.
- Listen to your body; don’t push through pain during physical activities.
- And of course, see a shoulder specialist if you experience persistent pain or discomfort.
Living with Scapulothoracic Bursitis
Living with scapulothoracic bursitis can be challenging, but there are ways to manage symptoms and still live a normal life.
If you have a job that involves frequent use of the shoulder, such as carpentry or music, you need to take extra precautions to prevent injuries. Regular shoulder exercises can help you maintain range of motion and reduce inflammation.
Here are some tips to help you live well with scapulothoracic bursitis:
- Engage in gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to keep your shoulder muscles strong and flexible.
- Use proper techniques and ergonomic tools to minimize strain on your shoulder joints.
- Gradually increase your exercise intensity; pushing your shoulder into painful positions is a no-go.
- Keep your doctor in the loop about any new or worsening symptoms so you can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Patients who have undergone surgery for scapulothoracic bursitis often report good to excellent results, allowing them to return to their previous activities.
Thus, bear in mind that being aware of potential complications such as nerve injury or bursitis recurrence is important.
Bottom Line
So there you have it. Scapulothoracic bursitis, or snapping scapula syndrome, can affect your daily life. Whether you choose non-surgical treatment like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory meds or surgical interventions, the goal is the same, relieve pain and restore normal shoulder function.
Prevention strategies like strengthening your scapular muscles and avoiding repetitive overhead movements can reduce your risk of this condition.
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