Subacromial bursitis

ICD-10 M75.5 · ICD-11 FB50&XA5BU5

Subacromial Bursitis When Relative Rest and Oral NSAIDs Have Not Reduced Shoulder Pain

Clinical Scenario

This protocol applies to patients with subacromial bursitis who have completed an initial management course — relative rest in the acute phase combined with oral NSAIDs — but have not achieved adequate reduction in shoulder pain within the expected 1 to 2 week timeframe.

Why Escalation Is Indicated

First-line management with relative rest combined with oral NSAIDs did not meet its primary target: meaningful reduction in shoulder pain within 1 to 2 weeks. A next-line approach is therefore indicated.

Next-Line Approach (Partial Overview)

The next step centres on a structured, progressive exercise programme as the primary intervention, with additional targeted options available for cases of persistent or severe shoulder pain.

Treatment Goals

Reduction in shoulder pain and measurable improvement in shoulder function within 8 weeks.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

Exercise should preferably be performed at low intensity and high frequency, within the pain threshold, and focusing on eccentric training.
Corticosteroid injections may be used for severe pain, if possible under ultrasound guidance, in the first 8 weeks.
Exercise therapy is more effective than no treatment in reducing pain and improving function of the shoulder.

DOI: 10.3109/17453674.2014.920991 View source ↗