Shoulder Arthritis

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

If you experience deep shoulder pain, stiffness, or a grinding sensation during movement, these could be signs of shoulder arthritis. The pain may increase with activity and improve with rest. You may also notice a decreased range of motion and difficulty performing daily activities.

How It’s Diagnosed

Dr. Khoo will perform a physical examination to evaluate shoulder movement and look for signs of arthritis. Imaging tests like X-rays are often used to assess the extent of joint damage and confirm the diagnosis.

Living with Shoulder Arthritis

Living with shoulder arthritis can significantly impact your daily life. You may find it difficult to reach overhead, lift objects, or even perform simple tasks like dressing. The pain and stiffness can also interfere with sleep, making it challenging to rest comfortably and maintain an active lifestyle.

Treatment Options

NSAIDs for Shoulder Pain: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with shoulder conditions.
Physiotherapy for Shoulder Conditions: Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder function and alleviating pain for conditions like rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and frozen shoulder. It involves targeted exercises and manual therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve mobility.
Corticosteroid Injections for Shoulder Pain: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain, especially for conditions like shoulder impingement and bursitis. They can be an effective option when combined with other treatments.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Designed for patients with severe rotator cuff damage and arthritis, this surgery alters the joint mechanics to allow the deltoid muscle to take over for the damaged rotator cuff.
Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure replaces the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, significantly reducing pain and improving mobility for patients with severe arthritis or joint damage.
Activity Modification: Adjusting your daily activities can significantly reduce shoulder pain and prevent further injury. This may involve avoiding overhead movements or modifying your workout routine. Dr. Khoo will provide personalised advice to help you adapt your activities while promoting healing.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery, such as shoulder replacement, may be necessary when pain and loss of function become severe and non-responsive to other treatments. Dr. Khoo will assess your condition and discuss the best options for restoring your quality of life, including the potential benefits and risks of surgery.

What if I Need Surgery?

If conservative treatments are no longer effective and the pain affects your daily life, surgery may be recommended to improve your quality of life. Dr. Khoo will guide you through the surgical options, recovery expectations, and provide detailed information to help you feel comfortable and well-prepared.

What to Expect at Your Consultation with Dr. Khoo

Dr. Khoo will discuss the extent of your arthritis and how it impacts your daily life. He will provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan, including non-surgical and surgical options, to help you understand the best course of action for your situation. His goal is to restore shoulder function and reduce pain as much as possible.

FAQs

How long does a shoulder replacement last?

A shoulder replacement can last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on factors like activity level, weight, and overall health.

What is the recovery like after shoulder replacement surgery?

Recovery typically involves 3 to 6 months of physiotherapy and gradual return to normal activities. Pain relief is usually noticeable early, but full recovery of strength and motion can take time.

Will I have full range of motion after surgery?

Many patients experience significant improvement in range of motion, though it may not be completely restored to pre-arthritis levels. Outcomes vary based on the severity of arthritis and the success of rehabilitation.