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Treatment Options

As with arthritis in the knee and hip joint, initial treatment is nonsurgical treatment for shoulder arthritis. The goal is to relieve pain, improve shoulder joint function and enhance overall quality of life. These conservative approaches are typically considered before surgical options and may include:

Encouraging patients to make lifestyle changes can be crucial in managing shoulder arthritis. This may involve avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the shoulder joint.

Physical therapy plays a central role in shoulder arthritis management. Therapists develop tailored exercise programs to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve joint flexibility, and enhance stability.

Non-prescription pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Prescription medications may be considered for more severe cases.

Creams, gels, or patches containing analgesic agents can provide localized pain relief when applied to the affected shoulder.

Intra-articular injections of corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or hyaluronic acid can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.

Activities such as swimming or stationary biking can be beneficial for maintaining joint function and cardiovascular fitness without worsening shoulder arthritis symptoms.

Some individuals find relief through alternative therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, or dietary supplements (e.g., glucosamine, chondroitin, quercetin).

Providing patients with information about their condition and teaching techniques for joint protection and activity modification can be valuable.

A balanced diet with anti-inflammatory foods may support overall joint health.

Managing chronic pain can be emotionally challenging, so psychological support and pain coping strategies can be important.

Applying heat or cold packs to the shoulder area may provide temporary relief from pain and stiffness.

Schedule a shoulder consultation

At HyperRegen Sports Medicine the choice of non-surgical treatment options for shoulder arthritis is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and the severity of their condition. Each patient receives a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. The goal is to manage symptoms, improve function, and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life while avoiding or delaying surgical intervention when possible.

Contact HyperRegen Sports Medicine to schedule a consultation to learn more about non-surgical treatments for shoulder osteoarthritis.

At a Glance

Dr. Jas Chahal

  • Head of Orthopaedic Surgery, Women’s College Hospital
  • Team Physician Toronto FC and University of Toronto Varsity Blues
  • Associate Professor, University of Toronto Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Program
  • Has more than 100 peer-reviewed publications
  • Learn more

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