What Is the Best Treatment for Arthritis in the Shoulder?

Wondering what is the best treatment for arthritis in the shoulder? Effective options include physical therapy, medications, injections, and surgery. Read on to learn about each treatment and how to choose the best one for you.

• Shoulder arthritis, often resulting from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or rotator cuff tear arthropathy, leads to pain and restricted movement due to cartilage degradation and inflammation.
• Early recognition of symptoms such as severe pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion is important for effective management and intervention.
• Initial treatments for shoulder arthritis include physical therapy, injections and NSAIDs. If symptoms persist despite these measures, surgical options may be considered for more lasting relief.

Shoulder arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of one or more joints in the shoulder, leading to the gradual loss of articular cartilage. This can cause significant pain and restrict movement, making everyday activities challenging. The shoulder joint is a complex ball-and-socket structure comprising the humeral head (upper arm bone) and the glenoid (shoulder socket). Over time, arthritis can cause changes in the bone structure, including the formation of bone spurs, which exacerbate the pain and stiffness associated with an arthritic shoulder and the AC joint.

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

• Osteoarthritis, which is often characterized by the gradual degradation of cartilage, leading to increased friction between the joint surfaces.
• Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and damage.
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy, which occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are damaged, leading to further joint degeneration due to the lack of muscle support.

Understanding the causes of shoulder arthritis is helpful in managing the condition effectively. Previous injuries or conditions that affect the joint structure, such as posttraumatic arthritis, can lead to the development of shoulder arthritis. Recognizing these factors allows for proactive steps to protect your shoulder joints and seek early treatment.

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary, but some common joint signs can help in identifying the condition early. Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

• Severe pain, especially during activities or even at rest.
• Pain that interferes with daily tasks such as dressing, driving, and maintaining personal hygiene.
• Stiffness and a reduced range of motion, making it difficult to lift your arm or reach overhead.

As shoulder arthritis progresses, you might notice a grinding sensation during shoulder movement, indicating that the joint surfaces are rubbing against each other. Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder pain is another common symptom that can significantly impact your quality of life. Identifying these symptoms early enables timely intervention, aiding in better management of the condition.

When shoulder arthritis is diagnosed early, several initial treatment options can help manage the symptoms and improve joint function. Resting the shoulder and modifying activities to prevent pain are crucial first steps. Physical therapy may play a role in treating shoulder arthritis by focusing on building muscle strength, improving flexibility, and restoring the range of motion. Initial exercises recommended for shoulder osteoarthritis include stretching muscles and tendons, which can help alleviate stiffness and pain.

In addition to physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Pain relief medication is often part of the initial treatment for mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are sometimes suggested but should be taken with caution and under medical supervision. Certain dietary changes, such as reducing processed foods, can also be beneficial in managing arthritis pain.

Other alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, may require multiple sessions to achieve noticeable pain relief. Exploring these initial treatments helps find the best combination for your specific condition and lifestyle.

Managing arthritis pain effectively is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life.

Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are commonly recommended to relieve pain and reduce swelling. However, it is important to use these medications cautiously, as long-term use of acetaminophen can lead to potential liver damage.

Prescription NSAIDs may also be considered but its important to remember that all NSAID’s can cause side effects like high blood pressure and upset stomach.

Physical therapists offer tailored exercises and treatments that may improve joint function and minimize pain signals, aiding in effective pain management. Employing a mix of these pain relief strategies effectively manages arthritis pain and enhances overall well-being, as a physical therapist can provide specialized guidance.

Therapeutic injections can be a powerful tool in the arsenal against shoulder arthritis pain. Corticosteroid injections, for instance, can provide rapid relief from both pain and inflammation. These injections are typically limited to a total of two or three to prevent complications, but they can significantly reduce inflammation and provide substantial pain relief for shoulder arthritis. It usually takes about two to three days for the corticosteroid solution to start working, and recovery after receiving the injection typically takes about one to two hours before patients can return home.

PRP injections are a great option in patients with early arthritic changes.  These injections have been shown to reduce pain and improve function in patients with arthritic shoulders.

Surgical treatment may become necessary if shoulder arthritis symptoms cause significant disability and are not relieved with nonsurgical treatment. When pain and limited function persist despite trying various nonsurgical options, shoulder replacement surgery may be discussed as a viable option. This decision is often based on the patient’s medical history, severity of symptoms, and overall health.

It is important to consider surgical treatment when the quality of life is severely impacted, and other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief. Consulting with an experienced orthopedic shoulder surgeon can help determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

When it comes to surgical treatment for shoulder arthritis, two primary options are shoulder arthroscopy and total shoulder replacement. Each procedure has its unique benefits and is chosen based on the severity and type of shoulder condition.

Understanding these options can help you make an informed decision about the best surgical approach for treating shoulder arthritis.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a camera is inserted into the shoulder joint through small incisions. This technique allows surgeons to view the inside of the joint on a screen and perform precise repairs. Commonly, shoulder arthroscopy is a common minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove loose cartilage and bone fragments, particularly in early arthritis cases with minimal joint damage.

The benefits of shoulder arthroscopy include smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. This procedure can effectively treat various conditions, including rotator cuff tears and shoulder impingement, making it a versatile option for many patients with shoulder arthritis.

Total shoulder replacement, also known as total shoulder arthroplasty, involves removing damaged shoulder parts and replacing them with artificial components to create new joint surfaces and relieve pain. The Precision Shoulder Replacement procedure utilizes advanced 3D surgical planning software and includes a proprietary method for subscapularis repair. This innovative approach ensures accurate implant sizing and placement, maximizing recovery potential through joint replacement surgery.

With extensive experience and a high volume of shoulder replacement procedures, I’ve seen firsthand how these factors contribute to fewer complications and improved outcomes for my patients. The Precision Shoulder system represents a significant advancement in shoulder replacement technology, which can offer better recovery and long-term results for those in need of a shoulder replacement.

Rehabilitation is a critical component of recovery after shoulder surgery, aiming to gradually restore normal function and manage pain effectively. Physical therapy is essential to ensure proper healing of the shoulder joint and avoid complications. Recovery timelines can vary, but patients typically start gentle therapy exercises within 1 week after surgery.

The first few weeks focus on soft tissue healing and bone integration with the implant, often requiring patients to use a sling for 4 to 6 weeks, which significantly impacts daily activities. Therapeutic exercises recommended often enhance flexibility and strengthen the shoulder area, progressing from passive exercises to active movements like shoulder shrugs and elbow raises.

Managing shoulder arthritis requires a comprehensive approach, from initial treatments and pain relief strategies to advanced nonsurgical methods and surgical interventions. Understanding the symptoms and available treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your care.

By staying informed and working closely with an orthopedic shoulder surgeon, you can navigate the complexities of shoulder arthritis treatment and find the most effective solutions tailored to your needs. Remember, early intervention and proactive management are key to maintaining shoulder health and minimizing the impact of arthritis on your daily activities.

Shoulder replacement surgery is commonly referred to as total shoulder arthroplasty. This term reflects the surgical procedure’s focus on replacing the damaged joint components.

The Precision Shoulder replacement procedure was pioneered by Dr. Paul Kiritsis.

Dr. Kiritsis’s focus on athletes shapes his rehabilitation approach to emphasize comprehensive recovery, including strength and flexibility, alongside the goal of returning them to peak performance. This holistic view ensures that the rehabilitation process is tailored to meet high athletic standards.

Dr. Kiritsis utilizes advanced 3D surgical planning software to enhance precision and outcomes in surgical procedures. This technology allows for detailed visualizations essential for effective planning.

A key feature of Dr. Kiritsis’s surgical technique for shoulder stability is his proprietary method for subscapularis repair. This innovative approach enhances shoulder stability and contributes to better patient outcomes.