Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects many individuals, causing pain and discomfort in the shoulder joint. It is important to understand the triggers of this condition in order to prevent or manage it effectively. In this blog post, we will explore some of the common factors that can trigger shoulder osteoarthritis and discuss how physiotherapists and chiropractors can help in its treatment.
One of the primary triggers of shoulder osteoarthritis is age. As we get older, the cartilage in our joints naturally wears down, leading to increased friction and inflammation in the shoulder joint. This can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Additionally, repetitive stress on the shoulder joint from activities such as lifting heavy objects or participating in sports can also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.
Another common trigger for shoulder osteoarthritis is previous injuries or trauma to the shoulder joint. If you have experienced a dislocation, fracture, or other type of injury to your shoulder, you may be at a higher risk for developing osteoarthritis later on. These types of injuries can lead to damage to the cartilage and surrounding tissues, increasing the likelihood of developing arthritis in the future.
Poor posture and improper biomechanics can also play a role in triggering shoulder osteoarthritis. When we consistently hold our shoulders in a hunched or rounded position, it can put added stress on the joints and soft tissues in the shoulder area. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear on the cartilage and ultimately result in osteoarthritis. Chiropractors and physiotherapists can help address these issues through exercises, manual therapy techniques, and postural corrections.
In addition to age, previous injuries, and poor posture, genetics may also play a role in determining your risk for developing shoulder osteoarthritis. If you have a family history of arthritis or other joint conditions, you may be more predisposed to developing arthritis yourself. While you cannot change your genetics, you can work with healthcare professionals like physiotherapists and chiropractors to manage symptoms and improve function if osteoarthritis does develop.
Shoulder osteoarthritis can be triggered by a variety of factors including age, previous injuries, poor posture, and genetics. By understanding these triggers, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent or manage this condition effectively. Physiotherapists and chiropractors play an important role in treating shoulder osteoarthritis by providing personalized treatment plans that address underlying causes and improve overall function. If you are experiencing symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from a physiotherapist or chiropractor. By addressing triggers early on and implementing appropriate interventions, you can minimize pain and discomfort associated with shoulder osteoarthritis for improved quality of life.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Seth Siegfried, HBK, DC, or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
