young man holding his shoulder after exercising outdoors

Shoulder Arthritis: How Is It Diagnosed and Treated?

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that results in inflammation and deterioration of the cartilage in the shoulder joint.

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis can be quite debilitating, making it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks. In some cases, surgery may be required to restore function to the shoulder joint.

If you are suffering from pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion due to shoulder arthritis you can consult with a shoulder doctor in Orlando. They help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

We will discuss how shoulder arthritis is diagnosed and treated.

We will also explore some of the treatment options available for those suffering from this condition.

sporty young man holding his shoulder after exercising outdoors

What Is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that results in inflammation and deterioration of the cartilage in the shoulder joint. The symptoms of shoulder arthritis can be quite debilitating, making it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks.

In some cases, surgery may be required to restore function to the joint in case of arthritis of the shoulder. There are several different types of shoulder arthritis.

The most common type is osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative condition that occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint breaks down. This can happen due to wear and tear on the joint, or it may be the result of an injury.

Other types of shoulder arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis.

Symptoms Of Shoulder Arthritis

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition.

However, there are some common symptoms that are associated with all types of shoulder arthritis. These include:

  • Pain in the shoulder joint
  • Stiffness in the shoulder joint
  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint
  • Weakness in the arm
  • Inflammation in the shoulder joint
  • Tenderness in the shoulder joint

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor so that they can properly diagnose your condition.

Diagnosing Shoulder Arthritis

There are a few different ways that your doctor can diagnose shoulder arthritis. The first step is to take a medical history and perform a physical examination.

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and whether you have had any injuries to the shoulder joint. They will also examine the shoulder joint for signs of inflammation or tenderness.

X-rays may also be taken of the shoulder joint to look for signs of arthritis. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan may be ordered to get a more detailed look at the shoulder joint.

Treating Shoulder Arthritis

There are a few different options available for treating shoulder arthritis. The first step is to try conservative treatments such as rest, ice, and heat therapy.

You may also be prescribed pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs to help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with shoulder arthritis. If these treatments do not provide relief, your doctor may recommend physical therapy.

Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and increase the range of motion. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged cartilage in the shoulder joint.

Shoulder arthritis is a painful condition that can make it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with shoulder arthritis, it is important to see your doctor so that they can properly diagnose your condition.