More than 50 million people in the U.S. suffer from some type of arthritis, which can affect joints such as the shoulder. Shoulder arthritis is inflammation of one or more shoulder joints. Today we’re providing information to guide you in determining whether you should consider seeking treatment for your shoulder arthritis in Louisiana.
What are the symptoms of shoulder arthritis?
Following are some of the most common symptoms of shoulder arthritis in Louisiana.
- Pain: This is the main symptom of shoulder arthritis. Your shoulder may hurt even when you’re sleeping, and the pain may worsen while you’re moving it and after you move it. The pain can be focused in the back or front of the shoulder, depending on which joint is affected
- Limited range of motion: You may find it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as brushing your hair or reaching for something in a cabinet.
- Sounds caused by movement: Your shoulder may develop a clicking, creaking, or snapping sound when you try to move it.
What are the causes of shoulder arthritis in Louisiana?
Several different types of arthritis can affect the shoulder.
- Osteoarthritis: This type of arthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease. It causes the cartilage that covers the top of bones to wear down over time and can frequently affect the AC joint. It may cause bone spurs to develop and it typically affects people older than 50.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes your immune system to attack tissue such as cartilage and ligaments and also softens bone. It usually affects the same joint on both sides of the body. It can affect people of any age and causes the lining of the joints to swell, which causes pain and stiffness.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: This type of osteoarthritis is caused by an injury to the shoulder. Injuries such as a broken bone or torn ligament can lead to posttraumatic arthritis. It causes fluid to build up in the affected shoulder joint, as well as pain and swelling.
What are the treatment options for shoulder arthritis in Louisiana?
Depending on the type of arthritis you have and the severity of your symptoms, your doctor can treat you in several different ways. In many cases, shoulder pain can be effectively treated without surgery, but in some cases, it may be warranted.
The following are some of the most common treatments for shoulder arthritis.
- Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help provide temporary relief from pain and help reduce inflammation. An injection of local anesthetic can also help provide relief. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may also receive corticosteroid injections to help reduce inflammation.
- Lifestyle changes: You may be able to get some relief by resting your shoulder or applying moist heat or ice several times a day. Physical therapy that includes exercises designed to increase your range of motion may also help.
- Surgery: If non-surgical options aren’t effective enough in controlling your pain and other symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery if it could help in your particular case.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or other symptoms of shoulder arthritis in Louisiana, call us today to schedule a consultation. You don’t have to live in pain – there are treatment options available!