What are the causes of bursitis?

Bone spurs. As we age, bone spurs (bone overgrowth) often develop on the underside of the acromion bone. When we lift our arms, the spurs rub on the rotator cuff tendon. Over time this will weaken the tendon and make it more likely to tear.

Repetitive movements. Repeating the same shoulder movements, again and again, can damage your rotator cuff muscles and tendons over time. Many physical jobs and routine chores can cause overuse tears. They are also commonly seen in sportspeople.

Bursitis pain (inflammation of the bursa) might be caused by overlying the rotator cuff or tendonitis of the cuff itself. In some circumstances, a partial tear of the rotator cuff may cause impingement pain. Bursitis pain may develop as the result of a minor injury or sometimes, it occurs with no apparent cause.