Dr. rahul khanna
M.S. (ORTHO), FIASM, FIA
Specialist Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy & Sports Injury
Dr. rahul khanna
M.S. (ORTHO), FIASM, FIA
Specialist Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy & Sports Injury
Shoulder Arthritis: Understanding Indications and Treatment Options
Shoulder arthritis can profoundly impact an individual’s quality of life, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. While conservative treatments such as medication and physical therapy can provide relief for some, others may find themselves facing the prospect of shoulder replacement surgery. In this article, we are going to look into the various indications and signs for shoulder replacement beyond arthritis, exploring the conditions and circumstances that may lead to shoulder replacement.
Understanding Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis results from damage or wear to the cartilage in the shoulder joint. If left untreated, shoulder arthritis can become very painful and interfere with your ability to perform daily tasks. If shoulder arthritis affects your life, a Penn orthopedic specialist can restore your mobility and relieve your pain.
Types of Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis: The most common type of shoulder arthritis, which occurs as a result of overuse or aging.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease in which the body attacks the joints and joint tissues, causing inflammation and damage in the shoulder.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Inflammation and joint damage caused by an injury to the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Arthritis Symptoms
Symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary, depending upon the severity of your condition. Symptoms may include:
- Grinding, popping, or cracking of the shoulder joint
- Pain that disrupts your sleep
- Pain that occurs during activity or motion
- Tenderness in the shoulder joint area
- Stiffness and swelling
Diagnosing Shoulder Arthritis
To diagnose shoulder arthritis, a Penn orthopedic specialist evaluates your symptoms, examines your shoulder and arm, asks about any recent injuries or underlying conditions, and takes a full medical history. Typically, X-rays or advanced imaging of the affected shoulder will be obtained to aid in making the correct diagnosis.
Each patient’s treatment plan is specific to their diagnosis, personal needs, and goals for treatment.
Surgery for Shoulder Arthritis
If your pain and discomfort do not get better through more conservative treatments, surgery may be your best option. Our orthopedic surgeons are highly skilled in the latest advancements in surgical treatment to help restore your range of motion and relieve your pain. We helped pioneer many shoulder surgery techniques, including total shoulder replacement and advanced arthroscopy techniques.
Depending on the type and severity of your shoulder arthritis, your surgeon may recommend one or more of the following surgeries:
- Total Shoulder Replacement
- Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
- Advanced Arthroscopic Techniques
- Shoulder Ligament Reconstruction
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment
Penn orthopedic specialists emphasize a conservative approach to treating shoulder arthritis through nonsurgical techniques, when possible. Many people find that their pain and function greatly improve through simple, noninvasive therapies. Nonsurgical treatments for shoulder arthritis include:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injection into the shoulder joint
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises/physical therapy
- Icing or applying heat to the shoulder joint
If these methods do not offer enough relief, surgery may be recommended to treat your shoulder arthritis. We perform the latest surgical techniques for the treatment of shoulder arthritis. Your physician will discuss these options with you.
Shoulder Arthritis Surgery Recovery
After surgery, your arm and shoulder will be in a sling for approximately four to six weeks. Your doctor will recommend that you get plenty of rest during this time. From day one, your surgeon will work with you on specific range-of-motion exercises to regain mobility without damaging the shoulder while it heals.
Rehabilitation
Recovery from shoulder arthritis surgery is different for everyone, taking anywhere from several weeks to months. Penn physical therapists, orthopedic specialists, and pain management specialists create your recovery plan based on the severity of your arthritis condition and the type of surgery you had.
Your treatment does not end with your surgery: We offer ongoing follow-up care that ensures you regain maximum mobility and function. You should speak with your surgeon about what recovery might involve for your particular condition.
Various Significance of Shoulder Replacement
Pain and restricted movement are two major effects of shoulder arthritis on day-to-day living. Some people may require surgery, even if conservative therapies like medicine and therapy can be helpful. Our orthopedic surgeons can create individualized treatment regimens that are specific to the demands of each patient, whether the procedure involves sophisticated arthroscopic procedures or a total replacement of the shoulder. Patients can recover their mobility and function with the right care and rehabilitation, guaranteeing a better, pain-free future.
Ready to find relief from shoulder arthritis? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rahul Khanna today to explore your options for surgery and regain mobility and comfort in your shoulder. Don’t let shoulder arthritis limit your lifestyle – take the first step towards a pain-free future. Contact us now to book your appointment.
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