Dealing with constant shoulder pain, but aren't ready for surgery? Good news - new and improved non-surgical treatment options can effectively manage your pain and improve mobility. Let’s take a closer look at options to treat early to mid-stage shoulder arthritis without surgery.
Orthobiologics: A Cutting-Edge Option for Shoulder Arthritis
Orthobiologics, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy, offer a cutting-edge non-surgical treatment option for shoulder arthritis. These regenerative treatments use your body's natural healing properties to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the affected joint. PRP involves injecting a concentrated dose of your own platelets into the shoulder, while stem cell therapy uses regenerative cells to help repair damaged cartilage. These innovative therapies have been discovered in recent years, and can provide significant relief and potentially help slow the progression of arthritis.
The Role of Medications in Arthritis Pain Management
Medications play a crucial role in managing shoulder arthritis symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce shoulder joint pain and inflammation. For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications or recommend corticosteroid injections to provide longer-lasting relief. These injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatories directly into the joint, helping to ease pain and reduce swelling.
Managing Shoulder Arthritis with Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for early shoulder arthritis.1 A customized exercise program designed by a physical therapist or doctor can help strengthen the muscles around your shoulder joint, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness. These exercises not only alleviate pain but also enhance joint stability, making it easier to perform daily activities without discomfort. Regular physical therapy can also slow the progression of arthritis, helping you maintain shoulder function as long as possible.
Lifestyle Modifications for Long-Term Relief
Lifestyle changes can significantly impact your ability to manage shoulder arthritis. Avoid activities that trigger pain while engaging in gentle, low-impact exercises like swimming or yoga to maintain flexibility and strengthen the shoulder without causing excessive strain. Additionally, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, promoting overall joint health.
Patient-centered care means exploring all options before considering surgery. Conservative treatments can effectively manage shoulder arthritis symptoms and enhance mobility without taking the surgical route. Regenerative therapies, injections, advanced medications, and tailored physical therapy are all proven non-surgical approaches designed to relieve pain and improve your quality of life.
AUTHOR : Brian W. Hill, M.D. is a board-certified shoulder surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute. He is an expert in advanced reconstructive and arthroscopic techniques, and serves as an assistant team physician for the Washington Nationals and their affiliates. Dr. Hill treats shoulder injuries and arthritis with a focus on patient-centered care and clear communication.
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