bsus medical abbreviation

2 min read 01-03-2025

The medical abbreviation BSUS commonly stands for bilateral subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis. This condition involves inflammation of the bursae located under the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) and above the deltoid muscle (the main muscle of the shoulder). Let's delve deeper into this condition, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is Bilateral Subacromial-Subdeltoid Bursitis (BSUS)?

Bilateral subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis, as indicated by the abbreviation BSUS, refers to inflammation in the bursae on both sides of the shoulder. Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction during movement. When these sacs become inflamed, it leads to pain and restricted movement in the affected shoulder(s).

Causes of BSUS

Several factors can contribute to the development of BSUS:

Repetitive Overhead Movements: Activities requiring repeated overhead arm movements, such as painting, weightlifting, or throwing, put significant stress on the shoulder joint, potentially leading to bursitis.
Trauma: A direct blow or injury to the shoulder can also cause inflammation of the bursae.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis can increase the risk of developing bursitis.
Infection: In rare cases, an infection can spread to the bursae, causing septic bursitis.
Mechanical Compression: Certain anatomical features or repetitive movements may compress the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa, increasing inflammation.

Symptoms of BSUS

The primary symptom of BSUS is pain in both shoulders. The pain may:

Be localized: primarily in the shoulder area.
Radiate: down the arm.
Worsen: with movement, especially overhead activities.
Improve: with rest.
Be accompanied by: stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion.

Individuals with BSUS might also experience tenderness to the touch over the affected bursae.

Diagnosing BSUS

Diagnosis of BSUS usually begins with a thorough physical examination by a doctor. The doctor will assess your range of motion, palpate the shoulder for tenderness, and inquire about your medical history and symptoms. Imaging tests might be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or other shoulder injuries. These tests may include:

X-rays: To rule out fractures or other bone abnormalities.
Ultrasound: To visualize the bursae and assess for inflammation or fluid accumulation.
MRI: To provide a more detailed image of the shoulder joint and surrounding soft tissues.

Treating BSUS

Treatment for BSUS aims to reduce pain and inflammation and restore shoulder function. Options include:

Rest and Ice: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain and applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the affected bursa can provide rapid pain relief.
Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary for BSUS, but it may be considered in cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent shoulder pain, especially in both shoulders, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your chances of a full recovery. Don't hesitate to consult a physician or physical therapist if you suspect you might have bilateral subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.