Understanding Shoulder Arthritis and Exploring Treatment Options

Understanding Shoulder Arthritis and Exploring Treatment Options

Understanding Shoulder Arthritis and Exploring Treatment Options


Shoulder arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition that impacts your quality of life. If you're experiencing shoulder pain and live in Lake Mary, FL, you may want to seek the expertise of an orthopedic surgeon. In this blog post, we'll explore what shoulder arthritis is, its various forms, symptoms, causes, and the different treatment options available to help manage this condition effectively.
 

What is Shoulder Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. When it occurs in the shoulder, it can affect the glenohumeral joint, where the humerus (upper arm bone) meets the shoulder blade, or the acromioclavicular joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Shoulder arthritis can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as reaching overhead or lifting objects.

Types of Shoulder Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder:

  1. Osteoarthritis: Often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis, osteoarthritis results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage that cushions the joints. This form is most common in individuals over 50.
  2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age.
  3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis develops after an injury to the shoulder, such as a fracture or dislocation, which can damage the cartilage over time.
  4. Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy: This occurs when a long-standing rotator cuff tear leads to arthritis. The torn rotator cuff muscles can no longer stabilize the joint effectively, resulting in wear and tear.
  5. Avascular Necrosis: This condition occurs when the blood supply to the bone is disrupted, causing the bone to collapse and leading to arthritis.
     

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary depending on the specific type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain in the shoulder joint, which may worsen with activity
  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion
  • A grinding sensation or clicking noise when moving the shoulder
  • Swelling or tenderness around the joint
  • Weakness in the shoulder
     

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of shoulder arthritis:

  • Age: The risk of developing shoulder arthritis increases with age, particularly for osteoarthritis.
  • Previous Injuries: Injuries to the shoulder, such as fractures or dislocations, can increase the risk of developing arthritis later in life.
  • Genetics: A family history of arthritis can predispose individuals to the condition.
  • Repetitive Use: Occupations or activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
  • Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can occur when the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue.
     

Diagnosis of Shoulder Arthritis

To diagnose shoulder arthritis, an orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary, FL, will perform a thorough physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to assess the extent of joint damage. Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
 

Treatment Options for Shoulder Arthritis

There are various treatment options available for managing shoulder arthritis, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical interventions:

Non-Surgical Treatments

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be recommended.
  2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion. A physical therapist will design exercises tailored to your specific needs.
  3. Lifestyle Modifications: Making changes to your daily routine, such as avoiding activities that exacerbate pain or using assistive devices, can help manage symptoms.
  4. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
  5. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or ice to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

Surgical Options

If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be considered:

  1. Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera and instruments into the shoulder joint to remove damaged tissue or repair tears.
  2. Shoulder Replacement Surgery: In cases of severe arthritis, shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended. This involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components.
  3. Resurfacing Hemiarthroplasty: This procedure involves replacing only the damaged part of the humeral head with a metal cap, preserving more of the bone.
  4. Reverse Shoulder Replacement: This surgery is typically performed when a large rotator cuff tear is present, and the joint is unstable. It involves reversing the normal ball-and-socket arrangement.
     

Conclusion

Shoulder arthritis is a common condition that can significantly impact your daily life. However, with the right treatment plan and guidance from an orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary, FL, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, don't hesitate to contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today for more information and to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team of specialists is dedicated to helping you find relief and regain your shoulder function.