Get Lasting Relief from Shoulder Bursitis — Expert Physiotherapy at Clover Physiotherapy

If your shoulder feels sore, swollen, or painful when lifting or reaching, you may be dealing with shoulder bursitis — an inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion your joints. At Clover Physiotherapy in Toronto, we help patients recover from shoulder bursitis through hands-on physiotherapy, targeted exercises, and posture correction — reducing pain, restoring motion, and preventing recurrence.

Every appointment is one-on-one with your registered physiotherapist, ensuring care that’s precise, personal, and progress-driven.

What Is Shoulder Bursitis?

Your shoulder contains several bursae — tiny, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tendons, muscles, and bones.

When one of these sacs becomes inflamed or irritated, it causes pain, tenderness, and limited movement — especially during lifting or overhead activities.

Shoulder bursitis often develops from overuse, poor posture, or mechanical irritation from nearby tendons (like in rotator cuff tendinitis or impingement syndrome).

Common Causes of Shoulder Bursitis

  • Repetitive overhead activity (painting, throwing, weight training)

  • Poor posture — rounded shoulders or forward head position

  • Muscle imbalance or weak rotator cuff muscles

  • Previous shoulder injuries (tendinitis, impingement, or strain)

  • Direct trauma to the shoulder joint

  • Systemic inflammation (e.g., arthritis)

Our physiotherapists take the time to identify the root cause of your bursitis — not just calm the inflammation — so that the pain doesn’t return.

Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

You may have shoulder bursitis if you experience:

  • Pain at the top or outer side of the shoulder

  • Discomfort when lifting your arm or reaching overhead

  • Tenderness and swelling around the shoulder joint

  • Pain that worsens when lying on the affected side

  • Reduced range of motion or stiffness

These symptoms can overlap with other conditions like impingement or rotator cuff tendinitis — that’s why an expert shoulder bursitis physio in Toronto is key for accurate assessment.

How Physiotherapy Helps Shoulder Bursitis

At Clover Physiotherapy, we use evidence-based treatment designed to reduce inflammation, restore function, and prevent recurrence — all customized to your pain level and goals.

Shoulder Bursitis Assessment and Diagnosis

We start with a thorough evaluation of your shoulder mobility, posture, and muscle activation to confirm bursitis and identify contributing factors.

Bursitis Pain and Inflammation Relief

In the acute phase, we use manual therapy, gentle movement, and modalities like ultrasound or laser therapy to calm inflammation and reduce pain.

Mobility Restoration

Once pain is controlled, we introduce guided range-of-motion exercises and joint mobilizations to restore smooth, pain-free movement.

Strengthening and Stabilization

We design a personalized program to strengthen the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, improving shoulder mechanics and reducing stress on the bursa.

Posture and Movement Retraining

Our physiotherapists help correct posture and movement habits that contribute to shoulder irritation — whether that’s lifting form, workstation setup, or daily activities.

Why Choose Clover Physiotherapy for Bursitis Treatment in Toronto

1-on-1 Personalized Shoulder Bursitis Physiotherapy

Every session is private and hands-on — no assistants or generic programs.

Manual Therapy Expertise

Kaitlin’s advanced orthopaedic training ensures precise treatment and faster results.

Root-Cause Correction

We don’t just treat inflammation or shoulder bursitis — we fix the mechanical reasons your shoulder flared up.

Empowerment and Education

You’ll leave each session understanding your condition, exercises, and how to stay pain-free.

Expected Recovery

With consistent physiotherapy, most shoulder bursitis cases improve significantly within 4–6 weeks.
More chronic cases may take longer, especially if underlying rotator cuff weakness or impingement is involved — both of which we address during your rehab plan.

What Happens If Bursitis Is Left Untreated

Ignoring shoulder bursitis can lead to:

Physiotherapy is the safest, most effective way to restore balance, relieve inflammation, and get you moving confidently again.

FAQs About Shoulder Bursitis & Treatment

Can physiotherapy cure shoulder bursitis?


Yes — physiotherapy reduces inflammation, restores motion, and prevents recurrence through strengthening and movement correction.

Do I need imaging (X-ray or MRI)?


Not always. Most bursitis cases can be diagnosed clinically by your physiotherapist through a physical exam and movement testing.

Can I still exercise with bursitis?


Yes, but movements must be modified. Your physiotherapist will guide safe, pain-free exercise progression.

Will bursitis come back?


If the underlying cause (like posture or weakness) isn’t addressed, bursitis can return. That’s why comprehensive physiotherapy is key.

Have a Question? We're Here to Help

Whether you have a question or are looking to book an appointment, our team is ready to help.

Book an Appointment 416-923-7277