Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common joint problem affecting many people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage, which usually cushions the shoulder joints, wears down, leading to pain and stiffness in the shoulder. While shoulder osteoarthritis is common, it can sometimes be challenging to tell when it’s a serious problem. How can you tell if you have a serious shoulder osteoarthritis problem? In this article, we’ll discuss the telltale signs that shoulder osteoarthritis is serious and when to consult a chiropractor or physiotherapist for treatment.
The severity of symptoms
Shoulder osteoarthritis presents with various symptoms, including pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Yet the severity of the symptoms provides a critical sign of whether the osteoarthritis is severe. If you only experience mild pain or stiffness that goes away with rest, then you’re likely experiencing mild shoulder osteoarthritis. However, severe pain and stiffness that doesn’t go away, even with medication, indicate a serious shoulder osteoarthritis problem.
Impairment of daily activities
Shoulder osteoarthritis often hinders your ability to perform daily activities such as brushing, dressing, and reaching objects. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness that make it challenging to carry out everyday chores or adversely affect your work, you likely have a serious shoulder osteoarthritis problem. Consulting a chiropractor or physiotherapist is essential to manage the condition and improve your quality of life.
Poor quality of life
Undoubtedly, shoulder osteoarthritis can cause considerable discomfort and affect your overall well-being. If you’re struggling with a poor quality of life, you should reach out to a chiropractor or physiotherapist for advice on how to manage your shoulder osteoarthritis and improve your mental health.
Advanced stage
Shoulder osteoarthritis gradually progresses through various stages, with stage 4 being the most advanced. Advanced-stage shoulder osteoarthritis is very serious and impacts your ability to achieve daily tasks. If you’re experiencing advanced-stage shoulder osteoarthritis, you may need surgery to repair the damage. During surgery, a chiropractor can perform the necessary adjustments, and a physiotherapist can help to rehabilitate your shoulder to restore mobility and function.
Failed conservative treatments
If you’ve tried conservative treatments such as rest, over-the-counter medication, or icing, and your shoulder osteoarthritis remains severe, it’s time to get in touch with a chiropractor or physiotherapist. Chiropractors use manipulation techniques to restore your joint movement and reduce pain, while physiotherapists use exercises to strengthen your shoulder muscles and reduce stiffness., both promoting the natural healing of shoulder osteoarthritis. Both treatments can help improve your shoulder osteoarthritis and restore your quality of life.
In conclusion, shoulder osteoarthritis is a common health issue that can sometimes go unnoticed. However, if you’re experiencing severe symptoms, poor quality of life, or failed conservative treatments, you should seek the help of a chiropractor or physiotherapist. Treatment is essential to alleviate your symptom and restore your shoulder’s range of motion, which will improve your quality of life. Reach out to a chiropractor or physiotherapist today to begin the journey to a pain-free life.
