Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that lines the shoulder joints. It usually affects people aged 55 and older, but it can also affect younger individuals who are genetically predisposed to the condition or have experienced some kind of traumatic injury to their shoulders. Pain, stiffness, and decreased flexibility are the most common side effects of this condition. In extreme cases, people with shoulder osteoarthritis may struggle to perform everyday activities due to the severe pain they experience.

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a common issue that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move. Common symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis include localized shoulder pain, reduced range of motion, swelling and tenderness around the shoulder area, creaking and grating sensations when you attempt to move your arm, and weakened muscles. In addition to these more common signs, some people might experience extreme fatigue especially after activities which require movement of their arm.

There are many effective treatments available to those dealing with shoulder osteoarthritis. Chiropractors specialize in manual techniques such as adjustments, mobilization, and manipulation to decrease pain and stiffness. Physiotherapy utilizes therapeutic exercises to improve range of motion, strength, endurance, and overall shoulder function. Massage therapy can be effective in relieving muscle tension that builds up due to shoulder stress and inflammation. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as reducing body weight, quitting smoking, and modifying activities can assist in decreasing the effects of shoulder osteoarthritis.

Shoulder pain is something that people struggle with every day, but why does it occur in the first place? Common causes of shoulder pain can include AC joint sprain, AC joint strain, calcific tendonitis, long head of biceps tendinopathy, rotator cuff tear, rotator cuff tendinopathy, shoulder bursitis, shoulder impingement syndrome, shoulder instability, shoulder labral tear, and shoulder slap lesions. It’s important to be aware of these potential sources of discomfort in order to reduce your risk for injury and take preventative actions that will keep your shoulders healthy and happy. Consultation with a qualified professional at CARESPACE can help determine the best solution to alleviate any discomfort experienced.