How to Beat the Pain of Osteoarthritis in Your Shoulder
Twenty-seven million Americans live with osteoarthritis. It’s one of the most common types of arthritis, and it often develops as joints deteriorate with age.
Young joints have a layer of slick cartilage between the bones, which cushion and keep joints moving smoothly. As you grow older, cartilage wears away, and bones begin to grind together. Arthritis occurs when joints get inflamed from friction, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
Arthritis can affect any joint, including the shoulder. Shoulder arthritis might affect one or both shoulders, making it difficult to lift your arms or perform normal daily tasks.
The doctors at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic understand the impact shoulder arthritis has on your quality of life. Our experts specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain, including pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Let us help you find shoulder arthritis treatment that works for your lifestyle. Book an appointment at one of our convenient Jacksonville, Florida locations by phone or online today.
Pain medication for shoulder arthritis
Arthritis causes joint inflammation, which leads to pain and stiffness. Over-the-counter oral pain medications like aspirin or ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and symptoms of shoulder arthritis. Always follow your doctor’s guidance and package directions when taking over-the-counter medications for arthritis.
Talk to our team about the best type of pain medication for you. Joint injections like corticosteroids and other minimally invasive treatment options can help patients with severe shoulder arthritis find more powerful relief from pain.
Physical therapy for shoulder arthritis
Physical therapy is controlled exercise and movement to strengthen muscles and relieve pain. The leading symptom of arthritis is joint pain, but maintaining mobility and moving your joints are actually among the best ways to manage arthritis.
Range-of-motion exercises and physical therapy can help preserve your joint mobility, maintaining and even improving your flexibility. Done regularly, physical therapy can help you continue living an active life even with shoulder arthritis.
At-home care for shoulder arthritis
Living with arthritis means listening to your body and resting when necessary. Although one of the best methods to manage arthritis is to stay active, rest is important, too. Consider making adjustments to your daily routine that lessen any strain on your shoulder.
Ice can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and minimizing pain. Apply ice to your shoulder for 20 minutes at a time, two to three times a day. In combination with other treatments, at-home care can help you manage shoulder arthritis pain.
In some cases, surgery is the best option to relieve pain caused by shoulder arthritis. Whether you need shoulder surgery or you’re looking for physical therapy and other methods to treat mild arthritis, find expert care at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic.
Let us help you beat the pain of arthritis pain in your shoulder. Contact us online or by phone to book your first appointment today.