Shoulder arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the shoulder joint. It is a condition that results from the wearing down of the cartilage that lines the shoulder joint. This can cause pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion in the shoulder.
This blog post will discuss what shoulder arthritis is, its symptoms, treatment options, and ways to prevent it.
What is shoulder arthritis, and what are the symptoms?
Shoulder arthritis is a condition that can occur due to the natural aging process. It can also be caused by repetitive shoulder motions, such as those often seen in athletes. Shoulder arthritis may also develop after an injury to the shoulder joint.
The most common symptom of shoulder arthritis is pain in the shoulder joint. This pain may be worse with activity or at night. Other symptoms of shoulder arthritis include stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder.
How is shoulder arthritis treated?
Shoulder arthritis is often treated with a combination of medication and physical therapy. Medications that may be used to treat shoulder arthritis include anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and corticosteroids. Physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint.
Newer treatment options that are showing promise for shoulder arthritis include PRP injections and stem cell therapy.
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is a concentration of platelets that are found in your blood. Platelets contain growth factors that can promote healing. Stem cells are a type of cell that has the ability to develop into other types of cells. Both PRP injections and stem cell therapy may help reduce pain and improve function in people with shoulder arthritis.
If you’re interested in learning more and seeing if you’re a candidate for either of these treatments, please feel free to contact my office for a consultation.
Total shoulder replacement surgery is another treatment option for shoulder arthritis. In this surgery, the damaged bones and cartilage are removed and replaced with artificial components. This surgery can be very successful in reducing pain and improving function.
What are some of the risks associated with shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It can also lead to reduced range of motion in the shoulder. If left untreated, shoulder arthritis may eventually result in the need for joint replacement surgery.
How can shoulder arthritis be prevented?
There are several things you can do to help prevent shoulder arthritis. These include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding repetitive motions of the shoulder, and keeping the shoulder joint mobile.
What is the prognosis for shoulder arthritis?
The prognosis for shoulder arthritis is generally good. With treatment, the pain and stiffness associated with shoulder arthritis can be managed.
I hope you found this information helpful. If you have any further questions or think you may be suffering from shoulder arthritis and would like a professional evaluation, please feel free to schedule an appointment.