Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Shoulder Bursitis in Children

Audience: pediatric

Shoulder bursitis happens when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) in the shoulder become inflamed. This can cause pain and trouble moving the shoulder. In children, shoulder bursitis often results from injury or overuse. Many times, symptoms can be managed at home or through telemedicine visits, where a healthcare provider can offer advice and check symptoms remotely. However, some signs mean your child should see a healthcare provider in person right away. These include severe pain, fever, or inability to move the shoulder. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps keep your child safe and ensures they get the right treatment. This guide explains the warning signs, what telemedicine can and cannot do for shoulder bursitis, and how to prepare for and follow up after a telemedicine visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe shoulder pain not relieved by rest or medicine — seek urgent in-person care.
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) combined with shoulder pain — possible infection, get immediate medical attention.
• Inability to move the shoulder or arm — urgent evaluation needed to prevent further injury.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Guidance on home care like rest, ice, and pain relief.
• Demonstration and monitoring of gentle shoulder movements via video.
• Advice on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds.
• Treatment of severe pain or suspected infections.
• Emergency interventions for sudden worsening symptoms.

What Is Shoulder Bursitis in Children?

Shoulder bursitis is swelling or irritation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the bones, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder joint. In children, this can happen from injury, repetitive movements, or infection. Symptoms often include pain on the outside of the shoulder, especially when moving the arm, and sometimes swelling or warmth around the joint.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Children with shoulder bursitis may have:

These symptoms can develop gradually or after an injury.

When to Use Telemedicine for Shoulder Bursitis

Telemedicine can help by allowing a healthcare provider to:

This can be a good first step if symptoms are mild and there are no serious warning signs.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person as soon as possible:

If any of these happen, go to an emergency room or urgent care center immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit:

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. This may include:

Keep track of your child’s symptoms and reach out if new problems arise.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have your child’s medical history and symptom timeline ready.
• Prepare to show your child moving their shoulder on camera.
• List any medicines your child is currently taking.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on rest and pain management.
• Apply ice to the shoulder as recommended to reduce swelling.
• Administer any prescribed or recommended medicines safely.
• Perform gentle exercises if instructed to maintain mobility.
• Monitor symptoms closely and seek in-person care if red flags appear.

FAQs

Can shoulder bursitis in children heal on its own?

Yes, mild shoulder bursitis often improves with rest, avoiding activities that cause pain, and simple treatments like ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, it’s important to monitor symptoms and follow healthcare advice.

How can I tell if my child’s shoulder pain is serious?

Serious signs include severe pain that doesn’t get better, fever with shoulder pain, inability to move the shoulder or arm, or numbness and weakness. If you see these, seek medical care promptly.

Is it safe to do telemedicine for shoulder problems in children?

Telemedicine is a helpful way to get advice and initial assessment for mild shoulder issues. However, it cannot replace in-person exams when symptoms are severe or worsening.

What treatments might a healthcare provider suggest for shoulder bursitis?

Treatment often includes rest, ice, pain relievers, and gentle exercises. In some cases, physical therapy or further tests may be needed if symptoms persist.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for shoulder pain?

Go to the emergency room if your child has severe pain, fever with shoulder pain, cannot move the shoulder or arm, or if the shoulder looks deformed or swollen quickly.

Sources

1. Shoulder Bursitis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Bursitis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Bursitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Shoulder Injuries — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or red flags, please seek immediate medical attention.