What Does it Feel Like to Have Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis can be challenging, significantly affecting one's ability to perform everyday tasks. Experiencing shoulder osteoarthritis typically involves enduring various symptoms that contribute to discomfort and a reduced quality of life. Patients often describe the pain as a deep, aching sensation within the joint, which can worsen with physical activity and disrupt sleep. This pain is frequently accompanied by stiffness, making it difficult to move the shoulder freely, especially after periods of inactivity. At Ospina Medical in New York City, Dr. Matthew Kohler understands the nuances of this condition and offers comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

What are the symptoms of shoulder arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis often presents a variety of symptoms that can vary in intensity and impact. Patients commonly experience:

Persistent pain: This is usually felt deep within the joint and may worsen with activity or during the night. The pain often intensifies with shoulder movements and can be particularly noticeable during activities like reaching or lifting.
Stiffness: Many patients report stiffness, making it difficult to move the shoulder freely. This stiffness is usually more pronounced after periods of inactivity or in the morning.
Reduced range of motion: Over time, shoulder arthritis can limit one's ability to perform once-routine movements, such as reaching overhead or behind one's back.
Grinding sensations: As the cartilage in the shoulder wears down, you may feel or hear a grinding or popping noise when moving the joint. This is due to the rough surfaces of the bones rubbing against each other.
Swelling: Inflammation in the joint can lead to noticeable swelling and a feeling of warmth around the shoulder.

How does shoulder arthritis impact daily life?

Living with shoulder arthritis can turn simple tasks into painful challenges. Actions like combing your hair, dressing, or even sleeping can become difficult. At Ospina Medical, we frequently hear from patients who feel frustrated by their decreased ability to perform these activities. This condition can also discourage physical activity, leading to muscle weakness and further limiting mobility.

What treatment does Ospina Medical offer for shoulder osteoarthritis?

Ospina Medical specializes in advanced treatment options for shoulder arthritis, with a particular focus on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP therapy harnesses your body's natural healing abilities by using a concentration of your platelets to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Here's how it works:

Blood draw and preparation: A small amount of your blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets.
Injection: The concentrated platelets are injected into the affected area of your shoulder. These platelets release growth factors that stimulate the healing process and reduce inflammation in the joint.

PRP therapy for shoulder arthritis is minimally invasive and can be an effective alternative to surgery for many patients, providing relief and improving shoulder function over time.

How can you manage shoulder arthritis symptoms at home?

In addition to professional treatments like PRP therapy in New York City, there are several strategies you can use at home to manage shoulder arthritis:

Physical therapy exercises: Engaging in gentle, low-impact exercises, as a physical therapist recommends, can help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder.
Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat can soothe muscle stiffness, while cold packs can reduce swelling and numb pain.
Rest the shoulder: It's essential to give your shoulder adequate rest, especially after strenuous activities. Avoid overusing the joint to prevent aggravating the symptoms. Using a supportive sling or brace during flare-ups can also help protect the shoulder from further strain.

When should you seek help from Ospina Medical?

If shoulder pain or stiffness is interfering with your daily life, it's time to seek professional advice. At Ospina Medical, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care customized to each patient's needs. Our specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don't let shoulder arthritis keep you from living your life to the fullest. Contact Ospina Medical today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options with Dr. Matthew Kohler.