Shoulder Arthritis Treatment in Middle Tennessee
When Shoulder Stiffness Starts Limiting Your Day
Simple movements like reaching for something on a shelf, getting dressed, washing your hair, or carrying groceries can become uncomfortable when arthritis affects the shoulder. As the condition progresses, pain and stiffness may make it increasingly difficult to move the arm comfortably or participate in activities you enjoy.
Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance provides evaluation and treatment for shoulder arthritis in Middle Tennessee. Understanding the source and severity of your symptoms is an important first step toward finding treatment options that can help improve shoulder function and manage pain.
What Is Shoulder Arthritis?
Arthritis occurs when changes within a joint lead to inflammation, cartilage damage, or deterioration of the joint surfaces. In a healthy shoulder, cartilage helps the bones move smoothly against one another. When this protective tissue becomes damaged or wears down, shoulder movement can become painful and restricted.
Several forms of arthritis can affect the shoulder. Osteoarthritis is associated with gradual wear of the joint cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect joints throughout the body. Arthritis may also develop following a previous shoulder injury.
Common signs and symptoms of shoulder arthritis can include:
- Aching or persistent shoulder pain
- Stiffness in the shoulder joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain during reaching, lifting, or other arm movements
- Grinding, clicking, or catching sensations
- Difficulty performing everyday activities
- Pain that interferes with sleep
Shoulder symptoms can overlap with rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, instability, and other orthopedic conditions. An evaluation can help determine whether arthritis or another problem is responsible for your discomfort.
Managing Shoulder Arthritis Pain with TOA Shoulder Doctor
An orthopedic evaluation may include discussing when your symptoms started, how they have changed, and which activities make them better or worse. Your specialist can also assess shoulder strength, range of motion, and overall joint function. X-rays or other imaging may be used to evaluate changes within the shoulder.
Treatment is based on the type and severity of arthritis as well as how much the condition affects daily life. Nonsurgical care may include modifying activities, medications, physical therapy, injections, or other conservative approaches. Physical therapy may help maintain mobility, improve strength, and support better shoulder function.
For advanced arthritis that continues to cause significant pain and loss of function despite nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be considered. Your orthopedic specialist can discuss appropriate options based on the condition of the joint, your symptoms, and your individual goals.
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment in Middle Tennessee
Living with shoulder arthritis can make routine movements increasingly uncomfortable, but treatment options are available. Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance provides shoulder arthritis care in Middle Tennessee, with treatment plans based on each patient’s symptoms, joint health, and goals. Schedule an appointment to have your shoulder evaluated and learn more about your options for managing arthritis pain.
Our Shoulder Specialists
Shoulder Arthritis Frequently Asked Questions
What does arthritis in the shoulder feel like?
Shoulder arthritis often causes a deep, aching pain along with stiffness or reduced movement. Symptoms may become more noticeable when reaching, lifting, or moving the arm through a larger range of motion.
Does shoulder arthritis get worse over time?
Some forms of shoulder arthritis are progressive, meaning changes within the joint can increase over time. The rate of progression and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.
How is shoulder arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a medical history and physical examination. X-rays or other imaging studies may also be used to evaluate the joint and look for changes associated with arthritis.
Can physical therapy help shoulder arthritis?
Physical therapy may be part of nonsurgical treatment for shoulder arthritis. Exercises can focus on maintaining range of motion, strengthening supporting muscles, and improving overall shoulder function.
When is surgery considered for shoulder arthritis?
Surgery may be considered when arthritis is advanced and pain or limited mobility continues to interfere with everyday activities despite nonsurgical treatment. The appropriate procedure depends on the condition of the shoulder and the patient’s individual needs.
