Posterior Deltoid Bursa

bursa subdeltoidea posterior

A posterior deltoid bursa may develop between the posterior deltoid and the underlying posterior rotator cuff (infraspinatus and teres minor tendons), acting as a gliding interface for the posterior deltoid over the cuff. While less consistently present than the anterior subacromial-subdeltoid bursa, a posterior subdeltoid bursitis is recognised in the context of posterior cuff pathology, posterior shoulder impingement, and posterior shoulder pain syndromes.

Region: Shoulder

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Posterior deltoid bursitis produces posterior shoulder pain and swelling localised between the posterior deltoid and the posterior cuff. It is associated with posterior rotator cuff tears, posterior shoulder impingement (internal impingement in overhead athletes), and posterior shoulder instability. Ultrasound demonstrates fluid between the posterior deltoid and the posterior cuff surface, distinct from the glenohumeral joint and the posterior joint capsule. Corticosteroid injection under ultrasound guidance into the posterior subdeltoid bursa provides diagnostic confirmation and symptomatic relief.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Subdeltoid Bursitis in Internal Impingement Syndrome

Internal impingement in overhead athletes produces posterior shoulder pain from pinching of the posterior cuff articular surface against the posterosuperior glenoid rim, with associated posterior subdeltoid bursitis from repetitive posterior cuff compression; posterior capsular stretching and rotator cuff strengthening address the underlying kinematic fault.