As a result of inflammation and degeneration of the shoulder joint, shoulder arthritis causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. We will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies of shoulder arthritis in this blog post.
There are several factors that can cause shoulder arthritis, including:
A degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, causing bone-on-bone friction.
The autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis causes chronic inflammation of the joints, including the shoulder joint.
A shoulder injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.
In avascular necrosis, bone tissue dies due to reduced blood flow to the shoulder joint.
Shoulder arthritis may cause the following symptoms:
Movement or activity may worsen shoulder pain
Shoulder stiffness or limited range of motion
Shoulder swelling or tenderness
Muscle weakness in the shoulders
With shoulder movement, there is a grinding or clicking sensation
Inability to perform daily activities, such as reaching or lifting objects overhead
In order to diagnose shoulder arthritis, a combination of a medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests is typically used. Some common diagnostic methods include:
Obtaining information about the onset, duration, and progression of symptoms, as well as any previous shoulder injuries or medical conditions.
Examine the shoulder for range of motion, strength, stability, and signs of inflammation or deformity.
Imaging studies: Ordering X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans to evaluate joint damage and detect signs of arthritis, such as narrowing joint spaces or bone spurs.
Several common treatment approaches for shoulder arthritis include relieving pain, improving function, and slowing the progression of joint degeneration.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief in some cases.
It is possible to improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion through physical therapy. Therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and modalities such as heat or ice may be used.
Devices that support the shoulder joint, such as braces, slings, or splints, can relieve pain during activity.
A surgical procedure such as arthroscopic debridement, shoulder resurfacing, or shoulder replacement may be considered in severe cases of shoulder arthritis that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Shoulder arthritis can be prevented by minimizing risk factors and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as:
Exercise and balanced nutrition can reduce the risk of arthritis by maintaining a healthy weight. Excess body weight can increase stress on the shoulder joints and accelerate joint degeneration.
By avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the shoulders, such as heavy lifting or repetitive overhead movements, you can prevent shoulder injuries and reduce the risk of arthritis.
Maintaining good posture and using proper body mechanics when lifting or carrying objects can help reduce stress on the shoulder joints and avoid overuse injuries.
Shoulder injuries should be treated promptly and effectively to prevent long-term joint damage and arthritis.
