Shoulder pain can make it hard to enjoy everyday activities, like playing sports, cooking, or even just getting dressed. If you or someone you know is experiencing shoulder pain, arthritis might be the cause.
Dealing with shoulder arthritis can be challenging. However, there are many ways to manage the pain and improve your quality of life.
Here’s what you need to know about shoulder arthritis, how to approach it, and what simple lifestyle changes can help relieve pain.
Understanding Shoulder Arthritis
Arthritis in the shoulder happens when the cartilage, which acts like a cushion between the bones, wears down. When this happens, it causes the bones to rub against one another, leading to pain and stiffness.
The two most prominent arthritis types are:
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type and usually affects older adults. Osteoarthritis develops slowly, so some people do not notice it at first. Then, it worsens over time.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This form of arthritis can affect any person regardless of their age. Rheumatoid arthritis causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues.
Treatment Approaches
There are several ways to approach treatment for shoulder arthritis. The right strategy can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Here are some common options for arthritis treatment near you:
1. Medications
Over-the-counter drugs can help lessen pain and inflammation. They are often the first step in managing shoulder arthritis. Depending on your pain levels, your doctor may also prescribe stronger medications.
2. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are stronger anti-inflammatory drugs. You can take them orally or get injected directly into the shoulder joint. Injections can provide relief from pain and swelling for several weeks or even months.
3. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength around the shoulder, improving stability and reducing pain. Your provider will devise a set of exercises to help you safely and effectively. Consistent physical therapy can significantly improve shoulder function and reduce pain over time.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of your platelets into the affected shoulder joint. Platelets contain growth factors that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Consider talking to your doctor about PRP treatments in Plantation, FL.
5. Surgery
If other treatments do not work, surgery might be an option. There are different types of surgeries for shoulder arthritis, including:
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. The shoulder doctor will use small tools to repair or clean out the joint. The procedure can help remove damaged tissue or loose fragments causing pain.
Joint Replacement
In severe cases, your shoulder doctor may recommend replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder with artificial components. This procedure is known as shoulder arthroplasty. Your shoulder doctor will consider the damage. They will also check the condition of the surrounding muscles and tendons.
Lifestyle Modifications for Pain Relief
Making some changes in your daily routine can also help manage shoulder arthritis pain. Here are some modifications to consider:
Stay Active
Regular exercise can keep your shoulder joints flexible. Low-impact activities like swimming or walking are great options because they do not put too much stress on your joints.
Always warm up before exercising and avoid activities that cause pain. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help maintain shoulder function and prevent stiffness.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight can put more stress on your joints, including your shoulders. Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on your shoulders. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can be beneficial. They provide the nutrients your body needs to stay strong and healthy.
Use Heat and Cold Therapy
Applying heat or cold packs to your shoulder can help reduce pain and swelling. Heat therapy can be as simple as using a heating pad or warm shower. They can help relax stiff muscles and improve blood circulation.
Cold therapy, like using ice packs, can help numb sharp pain and decrease inflammation. Always ensure to wrap heat or cold packs in a towel to protect your skin.
Practice Good Posture
Slouching can worsen shoulder pain by putting extra strain on the joints. Try to maintain good posture by sitting up straight and keeping your shoulders back. When you are standing, you want to make sure your weight is evenly distributed.
Good posture helps reduce the stress on your shoulder joints and can help alleviate pain over time.
Compassionate Shoulder Doctor Near Me in Plantation, FL
At Baylis & Brown Orthopedics in Plantation, FL, our orthopedic specialists are committed to providing quality healthcare for you. With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in providing comprehensive medical care for acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, including shoulder arthritis. We are happy to be your partner in caring for your health.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (954) 476-8800 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
