Shoulder Arthritis

What is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of shoulder bones and soft tissues. Shoulder arthritis symptoms include pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, swelling, and weakness. Symptom severity ranges from mild to severe. Progression of shoulder arthritis sometimes occurs quickly, as the shoulder is the most mobile—and one of the most frequently used—joints in the body. Patients over the age of 50 are most likely to experience shoulder arthritis. Shoulder arthritis may be seen in the acromioclavicular joint, the joint at the top of the shoulder, and/or glenohumeral joint, the ball and socket joint. Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics specialists use a medical history, physical examination, and medical imaging studies (X-rays and MRIs) to accurately diagnose shoulder arthritis.

How is Shoulder Arthritis Treated?

OIBO specialists use customized treatment plans to quickly reduce the symptoms of shoulder arthritis. Once symptoms are treated, treatment plans focus on preventing arthritis from increasing in severity. OIBO specialists treat shoulder arthritis using the following nonsurgical treatment options:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Non-narcotic oral and topical medications that decrease inflammation and pain.
• Physical therapy. Stretching and strengthening exercises performed under the supervision of an OIBO approved physical therapist.
• Activity modification. Modification or elimination of activities/movements that cause symptom flare-ups.
• Injections. Injections of anti-inflammatory and numbing medications quickly decrease pain.

Nonsurgical treatment options effectively treat the majority of cases of shoulder arthritis. If shoulder arthritis does not respond to nonsurgical treatment, an OIBO specialist may recommend a minimally invasive shoulder arthroscopy or a complete or partial joint replacement surgery. OIBO specialists are trained and board-certified to perform all shoulder surgeries, including hemiarthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. To schedule your appointment with an OIBO specialist, call 732-201-6990 or visit our contact page.