Shoulder Arthritis Treatment

The initial shoulder arthritis treatment does not involve surgery. Many people with shoulder arthritis can experience relief with simple lifestyle changes, including:

• Avoid activity:  The first step towards relief is taking a break from sports, exercise and other physically demanding activities.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, naproxen, piroxicam, celecoxib, and others, may temporarily relieve pain and control inflammation. NSAIDS should be used cautiously and are not meant as a long-term solution. Dr. Madsen will explain the usage and side effects with you if prescribed.
• Physical therapy: Your doctor may prescribe exercises to increase hip strength and flexibility. You may do these exercises on your own, or a physical therapist may teach you how to safely exercise your shoulders to decrease pain, increase range of motion and help slow down the progression of the arthritis.
• Injections. Injection of a corticosteroid along with a local anesthetic may also be helpful in relieving symptoms of shoulder arthritis. This is a simple and effective treatment that can be done in the doctor’s office. It involves a single injection that may provide temporary (months) or permanent relief. If pain and inflammation return, another injection or two, given a few months apart, may be needed. It is important to limit the number of injections, as prolonged corticosteroid injections may damage the surrounding tissues.

Surgical Shoulder Arthritis Treatment

There are two types of surgery that can be done to treat arthritis of the shoulder:

• Arthroscopic Surgery: This type of minimally invasive procedure allows Dr. Madsen to insert a small camera into the shoulder to clean out the joint. It’s important to note that this surgery will not cure the arthritis but will provide relief.

• Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty): Advanced arthritis may be treated with a joint replacement surgery where the damaged parts are removed and replaced with prosthesis

 Learn More About Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery >
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