How Shoulder Arthritis Develops and Ways to Ease the Pain
Shoulder arthritis can sneak up on you. It starts with mild stiffness and discomfort that gradually grows into pain that affects everyday tasks like lifting groceries, reaching overhead, or sleeping comfortably. There is good news, though: If you’re looking for shoulder arthritis pain relief, the team at Elliott Physical Therapy is here to help!
A key factor in our approach to managing shoulder arthritis is sharing information about your symptoms and condition. Understanding what’s happening inside your shoulder and knowing your different treatment options can make a big difference in your outcomes.
For that reason, we’re answering some of the most common questions received about how shoulder arthritis develops and what you can do to manage it!
What You Need to Know: How Shoulder Arthritis Develops
What exactly is shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis occurs when the tissue in your shoulder joint becomes inflamed. There are several types of arthritis that affect the shoulder. The most common is osteoarthritis, which occurs when the cartilage in the joint wears down over time. This cartilage acts as a cushion between bones, helping the joint move smoothly. When it breaks down, bones rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced movement.
The second most common type of shoulder arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack the lining of the joints, including the shoulder.
What causes shoulder arthritis to develop?
Osteoarthritis in the shoulder general develops for two main reasons:
- Age-related degeneration, which is a common side effect of getting older
- Previous injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, that damage cartilage
- A genetic predisposition
The cause of rheumatoid arthritis isn’t totally clear and likely has a genetic component.
Other factors can worsen arthritis symptoms, although they aren’t necessarily a direct cause. These include repetitive activities and improper posture, both of which can put unnecessary stress on the joint.
What symptoms should I watch out for?
Shoulder arthritis doesn’t appear overnight. Common symptoms include:
- Dull or aching pain, often worsening at night
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- Clicking, grinding, or popping sensations
- Weakness in the shoulder when lifting objects
What You Need to Know: Physical Therapy for Shoulder Arthritis
Can physical therapy help with shoulder arthritis pain relief?
Absolutely! Physical therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical ways to manage shoulder arthritis. It focuses on improving joint mobility, reducing pain, and building strength in the surrounding muscles, making everyday movements easier and less painful.
What does physical therapy for shoulder arthritis involve?
We create customized programs for shoulder arthritis pain relief based on the type of arthritis you have and your particular symptoms. However, most programs will generally include the following:
Acute Pain Management Strategies
- We’ll show you techniques and tools to decrease discomfort during daily activities.
Manual Therapy Techniques
- These hands-on methods help improve joint movement and reduce stiffness.
Targeted Strengthening
- These exercises build the muscles that support your shoulder, helping to reduce stress on the joint.
How long before I notice results?
While every patient is different, many people begin experiencing improvements within a few weeks of consistent therapy. The key is sticking with your program and communicating with your therapist about your progress.
When should I seek professional help?
If arthritis-related pain is interfering with your daily life, affecting your sleep, or not improving with basic at-home care, it’s time to reach out for help. The earlier you start treatment, the better your results tend to be.
Take the First Step Toward Shoulder Arthritis Pain Relief
You don’t have to live with the constant discomfort of shoulder arthritis. Professional care from the Elliott Physical Therapy team can help you manage symptoms, restore function, and get back to doing what you love.
Contact the Elliott PT clinic nearest you today to schedule an appointment and learn how physical therapy can help you find shoulder arthritis pain relief.