Treatment of shoulder arthritis

Shoulder arthritis, also known as Arthrosis of the shoulder, is a condition in which the cartilage in the shoulder joint gradually wears away. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the shoulder.

Shoulder arthritis is a common condition that usually occurs in people over the age of 60. However, it can also occur in younger people, especially in those whose jobs or physical activities put a lot of stress on the shoulder.

Causes of shoulder arthritis

The causes of shoulder arthritis include:

• Age: With age, the cartilage in the joint naturally wears away.
• Injury: Injury to the shoulder, such as a fracture or dislocation, can lead to arthritis.
• Overuse: Overuse of the shoulder, such as in athletes, can lead to arthritis.
• Genetic factors: Some people may be more at risk for shoulder arthritis than others.

Symptoms of shoulder arthritis

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis include:

• Pain in the shoulder
• Stiffness in the shoulder
• Decreased range of motion in the shoulder
• Crepitus (popping or grinding) in the shoulder
• Sensitivity in the shoulder

Treatment of shoulder arthritis

Treatment of shoulder arthritis depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, non-surgical treatment may be enough. In other cases, surgery may be necessary.

Non-surgical treatment

Non-surgical treatment for shoulder arthritis typically includes the following:

• Rest: Resting the shoulder can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Ice: Applying ice to the shoulder can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Compression: Using heat or cold compression can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Elevation: Elevating the shoulder can help to reduce swelling.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and improve range of motion.

Surgery

Surgery is typically performed for shoulder arthritis in the following cases:

• Severe and persistent pain
• Significant decrease in range of motion
• Inability to perform daily activities

Surgery for shoulder arthritis typically includes the following:

• Arthroscopy: In this procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the shoulder and uses small, camera-equipped instruments called arthroscopes to perform surgery.
• Open surgery: In this procedure, the surgeon makes a large incision in the shoulder.

Complications of shoulder arthritis

Shoulder arthritis can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic pain
• Joint stiffness
• Loss of muscle strength
• Inability to perform daily activities

Prevention of shoulder arthritis

To help prevent shoulder arthritis, it is important to take care of your shoulder properly. This includes:

• Avoiding activities that cause pain or discomfort in the shoulder.
• Strengthening the muscles around your shoulder.
• Using warm-up and cool-down exercises for your shoulder before and after physical activity.
• Avoiding lifting heavy weights.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it is important to see a doctor to diagnose the cause of the pain. Early treatment can help to prevent the progression of shoulder arthritis and reduce pain and discomfort. 

source: https://roozbehtaghavi.com/shoulder-arthritis/