## Overview Deltoid bursitis is inflammation of the bursa associated with the deltoid muscle in the shoulder region. True bursitis in this location is uncommon in horses. When present, it produces localized swelling, heat, and pain, and may contribute to shoulder lameness. ## Causes Direct trauma or repetitive strain. Septic bursitis can follow penetrating injury. ## Diagnosis Palpation of swelling and pain in the shoulder region, ultrasound, and response to diagnostic analgesia. Other causes of shoulder lameness are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and, if septic, drainage and antibiotics. Removal of ongoing trauma is important. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for non-septic cases with rest. Septic bursitis requires more aggressive treatment. ## Prevention Avoidance of shoulder trauma.
localized swelling and heat over the shoulder; pain on palpation; shoulder-region lameness
## Overview Deltoid bursitis is inflammation of the bursa associated with the deltoid muscle in the shoulder region. True bursitis in this location is uncommon in horses. When present, it produces localized swelling, heat, and pain, and may contribute to shoulder lameness. ## Causes Direct trauma or repetitive strain. Septic bursitis can follow penetrating injury. ## Diagnosis Palpation of swelling and pain in the shoulder region, ultrasound, and response to diagnostic analgesia. Other causes of shoulder lameness are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and, if septic, drainage and antibiotics. Removal of ongoing trauma is important. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for non-septic cases with rest. Septic bursitis requires more aggressive treatment. ## Prevention Avoidance of shoulder trauma.
localized swelling and heat over the shoulder; pain on palpation; shoulder-region lameness