There are a number of medical care options available to patients for reducing the symptoms of degenerative joint disease in the shoulders, many without the need for surgical intervention. We believe that education is the first step on the road to living a healthier, more comfortable lifestyle so today we’re discussing the best treatment options for shoulder arthritis in Louisiana.
What is shoulder arthritis?
When searching for the best treatment option for shoulder arthritis, it’s important to understand the condition itself. Also known as degenerative joint disease, it is the physical destruction of the protective tissue in your joints known as cartilage. As the cartilage in your shoulder breaks down, the upper arm bone and the shoulder blade can rub together and cause pain, swelling, catching or grinding, and lost range of motion.
What treatment options do I have?
The treatment options will depend on several factors, including your age, severity of symptoms, and activity level. There are a number of non-surgical and surgical possibilities, depending on the type and location of the arthritis. When making a choice about shoulder pain arthritis therapy, it’s important to talk to your doctor honestly and openly about your symptoms, other conditions, lifestyle, concerns, and questions, so that together you can make the best possible decision.
Will decreasing my activity help my shoulder arthritis in Louisiana?
Yes, decreasing activity may help your osteoarthritis. Overhead or heavy labor activities can worsen arthritis of the shoulder. It is, however, important to maintain a good range of motion and muscle strength in an arthritic joint, so decreasing activity too much is actually counter-productive.
Can physical therapy help my condition?
Yes, physical therapy is often an effective treatment for cases of mild to moderate degenerative joint disease. Your doctor can teach you shoulder arthritis exercises that can strengthen your joints, and improve their range of motion.
Are there medications I can take for my shoulder arthritis in Louisiana?
The most common medications used for arthritis are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which help by decreasing pain and inflammation in an arthritic joint. For patients who suffer from severe gastrointestinal upset due to medication, some newer agents called COX-2 inhibitors may decrease the probability of upset stomach or ulcers during medication use.
Would it help to get a steroid injection?
Intra-articular steroids (such as cortisone) can provide significant short-term pain relief in patients with advanced arthritis. The injections only last between a few weeks and three months and are typically limited to three or four a year, although there are no specific guidelines.
Is surgery the best treatment option for shoulder arthritis in Louisiana?
Surgery can be an effective treatment option for shoulder osteoarthritis, but only you and your doctor can determine whether it is right for you. For those with severe degenerative joint disease of the shoulder, removal of the arthritic surfaces of the joint and replacement with a prosthetic can reduce pain and improve range of motion. This is called total shoulder replacement.
What’s the best option for you?
The best treatment option for shoulder arthritis varies because everyone’s body and needs are different. The best thing you can do for your arthritis is to see an expert who can analyze your specific case, and help you make decisions about what kind of therapy would AOL desktop gold icon missing work best for you.
Call our office today to schedule a consultation and let’s discuss the best way to treat your shoulder arthritis in Louisiana and get you pain-free.