SHOULDER AND ELBOW
Shoulder Osteoarthritis
Shoulder osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the shoulder joint. It occurs when the protective cartilage covering the bones in the joint wears down over time, resulting in pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. Although more prevalent in older individuals, it can also arise from previous injuries, overuse, or other factors that contribute to joint deterioration.
Symptoms:
- Gradual onset of shoulder pain that may worsen progressively.
- Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the shoulder joint.
- Pain aggravated by activity and relieved by rest.
- Tenderness and swelling around the affected area.
- Crepitus (a grating or cracking sensation) with shoulder movement.
Treatment:
The primary objectives in managing shoulder osteoarthritis are pain relief, improved joint function, and enhanced quality of life. Treatment typically involves a combination of conservative measures and, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Conservative Treatment:.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program to improve shoulder strength, flexibility, and joint stability. They may also use modalities like heat or ice to alleviate pain and swelling.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding or modifying activities that exacerbate shoulder pain can help reduce joint stress and promote healing.
- Assistive Devices: Using a cane or other supportive devices can help reduce pressure on the affected shoulder during daily activities.
Corticosteroid Injections:
- Injections of corticosteroids into the shoulder joint can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections:
- In some cases, injections of hyaluronic acid may be used to help lubricate the joint and reduce friction.
Regenerative Therapies:
- In certain cases, emerging regenerative therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell injections may be considered to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Treatment:
- Surgical intervention may be recommended when conservative treatments fail to provide sufficient relief or for advanced cases of shoulder osteoarthritis.
- Arthroscopic surgery can be performed to remove debris or repair damaged tissue within the shoulder joint.
- In severe cases with significant damage to the joint surfaces, shoulder joint replacement surgery (shoulder arthroplasty) may be considered. This procedure involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial implants.
The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the shoulder osteoarthritis, the patient’s age, overall health, and lifestyle.
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