Arthritis of the Shoulder
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of shoulder arthritis. Also called wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is characterized by progressive wearing away of the cartilage of the joint. As the protective cartilage surface of the joint is worn away by shoulder arthritis, bare bone is exposed within the shoulder.
The other common type of shoulder arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the joints. This inflammation can, over time, invade and destroy the cartilage and bone.
What are the symptoms of shoulder arthritis?
The most common symptoms of shoulder arthritis are:
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Pain with activities
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Limited range of motion
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Stiffness of the shoulder
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Swelling of the joint
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Tenderness around the joint
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A feeling of grinding or catching within the joint
How is shoulder arthritis diagnosed?
Evaluation of a patient with shoulder arthritis should begin with a physical examination and x-rays. These can serve as a baseline to evaluate later examinations and determine progression of the condition.
How is shoulder arthritis treated?
Non surgical Treatment
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Limiting certain activities may be necessary, and learning new exercise methods may be helpful.
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Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), as directed.
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Corticosteroids can be taken orally or injected to relieve pressure on the nerve. (Don't take without your physician's approval)
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Physical Therapy
Stretching and strengthening of the muscles around the shoulder joint may help decrease the burden on the shoulder. Preventing atrophy of the muscles is an important part of maintaining functional use of the shoulder.
Surgery
Shoulder Replacement Surgery — In this procedure the arthritic cartilage is removed and a metal and plastic ball-and-socket implant is placed in the shoulder. This is an excellent option to relieve pain associated with severe shoulder arthritis.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).