Can Arthritis Be Causing My Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain is something that no one should have to live with. The problem is that it can sometimes be tricky to pinpoint exactly what has caused the pain in the first place. We typically chalk it up to getting older or some type of physical exertion that we have performed. But regardless of the source, it should never be ignored with the assumption that it will go away on it's own. Sometimes, the problem is more extensive than just a case of over-exertion. Sometimes, the pain is due to arthritis.

What Is Arthritis?

Simply put, arthritis is an inflammation of a joint. When a joint becomes inflamed, cartilage begins to become damaged and, eventually destroyed. Since cartilage is the absorbent padding between bones in a joint that allows it to move smoothly, the deterioration of this padding means that the bones are allowed to make contact. This contact causes swelling, pain and stiffness. The area may also become sore to the touch and there could even be some degree of muscle weakness present. Since the shoulder is comprised of four joints, this allows multiple areas where arthritis can set in.

Arthritis of the shoulder can be due to age, the result of a traumatic injury or wear-and-tear over time. Since we utilize our shoulder joints a great deal in our everyday lives, they can develop arthritis simply due to use. Of course, individuals who preform physically demanding work or those individuals who are involved in sports have a propensity to develop arthritis more often.

Diagnosing Arthritis

Arthritis is one condition that will not go away on it's own. Once it begins to affect a joint, it will only get worse in intensity and discomfort. That's why it is important to diagnose arthritis as soon as you begin to feel symptoms in order to minimize the discomfort and the damage to the joint.

The most effective ways to diagnose arthritis is through a physical examination and x-rays. Each provides their own support of the diagnosis, and together they build a strong enough case to support the theory. In some instances, a pain specialist may inject the area with a local anesthesia to see if it relieves some of the discomfort. If it does, this serves as further proof that your should is inflamed with arthritis.

Treatment Options

The best forms of treatment for an arthritic shoulder include moist heat, applying ice packs to the area in an effort to reduce inflammation and physical therapy. A pain specialist may also recommend non-steroid injections into specific areas if the level of pain becomes too intense.

Surgery can also be performed on an arthritic shoulder, although it is always a last resort option.