Find Treatment For Shoulder Arthrtitis in Mission Viejo, CA

The shoulder may develop arthritis as a result of degeneration, trauma, or autoimmune disease. Treatment for shoulder arthritis varies based on the severity of the condition, but the majority of patients are able to control their symptoms and maintain functionality in the shoulder.  

About Shoulder Arthritis

Arthritis is a broad term that simply means inflammation of a joint. It may be caused by a number of factors. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative condition in which the cartilage surfaces of the joint break down over time. Post-traumatic arthritis may occur after shoulder trauma. Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks joints all over the body. There are also some less common types of arthritis, such as infectious arthritis.

Shoulder arthritis is most common among older people. It may also occur in athletes who use the shoulder frequently. Shoulder arthritis can produce pain and stiffness that make it difficult to perform even simple tasks.

Treatment Options

The most minimally invasive treatments available are preferred for treating arthritis. Because arthritis is usually a chronic condition, management is also long-term. Making lifestyle changes can go a long way toward controlling symptoms. Some common treatments include:

• Physical therapy – Can help strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder and maintain a range of motion. The exercises learned in physical therapy should be performed at home regularly. Whatever other treatments are used, physical therapy will form a cornerstone of the treatment process.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Medications like Aleve and Advil can help relieve the inflammation associated with shoulder arthritis.
• Steroid injections – Steroids have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. By injecting the medication directly into the joint, it is possible to provide a large dose with only local effects.
• Shoulder replacement – Surgical replacement of the damaged joint surfaces is sometimes necessary in cases where symptoms are severe and the patient does not respond to any other treatment methods.

Another factor that influences the course of treatment is the patient’s age and activity level. Athletes and other people who require full use of the shoulder, such as musicians, will typically receive more aggressive treatment. In contrast, older and more sedentary people will typically receive less aggressive treatment, because the benefits do not outweigh the risks.  

Best Mission Viejo Shoulder Doctor

The best doctor for shoulder arthritis in Mission Viejo, CA is Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic. Dr. Marans has worked in orthopedics for over 20 years. He is skilled at the administration of both surgical and non-surgical treatments, and has helped many shoulder arthritis patients to regain function.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your shoulder pain. To schedule your consultation today, please call (714) 979-8981 or click below and enter your information and we will get right back to you.