Osteoarthritis can be quite debilitating, especially when it affects the joints in your upper body. Shoulder osteoarthritis is common, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe. As you age, the risk of developing this condition increases. However, the severity and progression of shoulder osteoarthritis differ from person to person. If you’re wondering whether your shoulder osteoarthritis will affect your longevity, read on to find out.
How Does Shoulder Osteoarthritis Affect Longevity?
Shoulder osteoarthritis can make daily activities more challenging and, if untreated, can lead to disability. However, it doesn’t necessarily affect longevity. In other words, having shoulder osteoarthritis doesn’t mean you’ll have a shorter life expectancy. As with any medical condition, proper management is crucial. Exercise, physiotherapy, and medication can help manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition. A chiropractor can also help alleviate the pain and discomfort that can come with shoulder osteoarthritis.
What Lifestyle Changes Can Help Manage Shoulder Osteoarthritis?
Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and weight management can all help manage shoulder osteoarthritis. Exercise can improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around the affected area, and reduce pain. Physiotherapy can help with range of motion, while a chiropractor can help with adjustments for pain relief. If you’re overweight, losing weight can significantly reduce pressure on your joints, leading to less discomfort.
What Can You Expect from Treatment?
Treating shoulder osteoarthritis is about managing symptoms and preventing further damage to the joint. Depending on the severity of your condition, your healthcare provider may recommend medication, physiotherapy, a chiropractor visit, or surgery. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and medical history.
What’s the Outlook for People with Shoulder Osteoarthritis?
Shoulder osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, and there’s currently no cure. However, with proper management, people can live a long and relatively healthy life. Understanding your condition, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical attention early on can significantly improve your quality of life. No matter how severe your condition is, there’s always something you can do to reduce your pain and increase your mobility.
Living with shoulder osteoarthritis can be challenging, but it doesn’t necessarily affect longevity. With proper management, people with this condition can live long and fulfilling lives. Treatment options include physiotherapy, medication, chiropractor visits, and surgery. Patients can make lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, and weight management to manage the symptoms. Seeking medical attention early on can significantly improve your quality of life. Remember, shoulder osteoarthritis is a long-term condition, and there’s no cure, but you don’t have to suffer alone – there’s always support available.
