Shoulder arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people each year, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Research show that arthritis is a common condition that often affects the shoulder, impacting their ability to perform everyday activities and enjoy an active lifestyle.
Dr. Brian Kelly, based in PA, specializes in Elbow, Knee, Shoulder, and Sports Medicine, helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life. With years of experience, he offers tailored treatments to meet your needs, from non-surgical options to surgical solutions. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—schedule an appointment today to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Understanding the treatment options available is the first step in managing shoulder arthritis effectively. Keep reading to explore your choices and find the solution that’s right for you.
What is Shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis occurs when the articular cartilage in the ball and socket joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced shoulder movement. This condition can result from aging, inflammatory arthritis, previous injuries, or chronic wear and tear. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
- Persistent shoulder pain that worsens with activity or over time.
- Stiffness, especially after inactivity or in the morning.
- Grinding or clicking in the shoulder during movement.
- Swelling, muscle tenderness, or soreness in the surrounding tissues.
- Gradual loss of arm movement and range of motion.
Shoulder arthritis typically progresses gradually, with cartilage loss worsening symptoms over time. Identifying joint signs early and implementing proper initial treatment can help slow progression and maintain shoulder blade and joint function.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments focus on relieving pain and improving joint function without the need for invasive procedures. Since shoulder arthritis often impacts other joints or causes other symptoms, addressing the common symptom of pain and inflammation is vital. Managing these body attacks early can help maintain mobility and reduce discomfort effectively.
Medications
- Over-the-Counter Options
For mild to moderate shoulder arthritis pain, anti-inflammatory medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen provide short-term pain relief. These medications help manage inflamed joints, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility.
- Prescription Medications
When over-the-counter options are insufficient, doctors may recommend stronger NSAIDs or corticosteroids. These can provide targeted relief for advanced arthritis. Always consult a specialist to assess your medical history and determine the safest options.
Physical Therapy
How Targeted Exercises Can Help
Targeted exercises strengthen the rotator cuff tendons and surrounding soft tissues, improving flexibility and shoulder movement while reducing pain. Physical therapy can also prevent scar tissue buildup and further strain on the shoulder socket. A personalized routine tailored to your needs ensures safe, effective results and supports long-term recovery.
Corticosteroid and Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Corticosteroid injections help reduce inflammation in inflamed joints, offering short-term pain relief during flare-ups. Hyaluronic acid injections provide lubrication for the cartilage surface, enhancing shoulder movement and easing stiffness. These treatments are particularly effective when pain signals limit daily activities, often serving as a bridge to longer-term solutions like physical therapy.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments are often considered when conservative methods fail to provide relief. These procedures can address issues like bone spurs, broken bones, or damage to joint surfaces, aiming to restore smooth cartilage and improve function. The most common surgical procedure depends on the specific condition and severity.
Shoulder Arthritis Surgery
For treating shoulder arthritis in its early stages, shoulder arthroscopy may be recommended. This common surgical procedure uses small incisions to remove scar tissue, smooth the cartilage surface, or repair minor tears in the rotator cuff or other soft tissues. Shoulder arthroscopy offers quicker recovery and targeted improvements in shoulder movement and function.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
When arthritis leads to severe cartilage loss and joint damage, shoulder surgery may involve replacing the damaged ball and socket joint with prosthetic components. There are two shoulder replacement options:
- Total Shoulder Replacement: Both the metal ball (humeral head) and the shoulder socket (glenoid) are replaced. This is ideal for severe arthritis or extensive damage.
- Partial Shoulder Replacement: Only the upper arm bone (humeral head) is replaced, suitable when the socket is intact.
A reverse total shoulder replacement may be recommended for patients with a large rotator cuff tear or unique joint conditions, as it alters how the joint functions to restore mobility.
Ideal candidates include those with chronic pain, limited shoulder movement, or joint damage unresponsive to other treatments. Recovery involves physical therapy to restore strength and normal tissue function, with most patients reporting significant improvements.
How to Determine the Right Approach for Shoulder Arthritis or Shoulder Pain Relief
Factors to Consider for Arthritic Shoulder or Arthritis Pain
- Severity of symptoms, including pain worse with activity, and joint space narrowing.
- Age, overall health, and prior imaging tests can impact recovery and treatment suitability.
- Lifestyle and activity levels, ensuring the chosen approach supports daily needs and long-term goals.
Importance of Consultation
Consulting with a specialist is essential to evaluate treatment options based on your medical history and needs. A tailored plan can maximize results, whether through medications, therapy, or surgery.
Combining Treatments
Starting with non-surgical approaches, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or dietary supplements, can provide relief. Testing dietary supplements should be supervised to ensure their safety. If these options fail, surgical treatment may be the next step. Options like shoulder replacement surgery or shoulder arthroscopy provide durable solutions for pain relief and improved function.
By understanding your condition and exploring all available treatments, you can effectively relieve pain, improve arm movement, and regain an active lifestyle.
Have Your Shoulder Arthritis Treated With Dr. Brian Kelly
Exploring your treatment options and finding the right approach can make a significant difference in improving your quality of life. Dr. Brian Kelly is here to provide expert care tailored to your needs, helping you manage pain, provide pain relief, and address severe pain effectively.
Don’t wait to address your concerns—schedule an appointment with us today. We specialize in providing comprehensive, personalized care, including advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions, to help you get back to living pain-free. Reach out now to start your path to recovery!
