Arthritis of the shoulder is a condition in which the joints become swollen and tender, leading to discomfort and impaired movement during everyday activities. Unfortunately, this medical condition cannot be cured, but there are treatments available to minimize the pain and enhance mobility. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder osteoarthritis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Causes
Osteoarthritis, which is commonly referred to as the “wear and tear” type of arthritis, is the most common cause of shoulder arthritis. As time passes, the cartilage in the joints becomes worn, which allows the bones to rub against each other and thus resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Shoulder arthritis is most evidently characterized by discomfort in the shoulder. This can occur regardless of physical activity or excessive use of the shoulder. Depending on the severity, the pain may spread to the elbow or wrist. Other signs of shoulder arthritis include stiffness, a grinding or popping sound when the shoulder is moved, and an inability to relax comfortably.
Treatment
To manage shoulder arthritis, you can take pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory medications, do physical therapy, use a cane or walker, and trim down if you are overweight. Injections aimed at decreasing inflammation in the joints may also be beneficial in relieving discomfort and increasing the range of motion. For more severe cases of the condition, PRP injections or minimally invasive shoulder arthroscopy may provide symptom relief for two to five years. The most dependable treatment for shoulder arthritis is shoulder replacement surgery.
What Treatment is Right for Me?
During your consultation with your orthopedic surgeon, they will evaluate you and help you pick the treatment plan that best fits your needs. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder osteoarthritis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada