Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder Treatment in Louisiana
Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative arthritis, is a gradual breakdown of the cartilage that protects the ends of bones in your joints. In the shoulder, it can severely impact your ability to reach, lift, and sleep comfortably. LA Pain Doctor treats shoulder arthritis for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA with non-surgical care.
Request an AppointmentHow Shoulder Osteoarthritis Develops
Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue that lets bones glide smoothly against each other. In shoulder osteoarthritis, this cartilage wears thin over time, so bones begin to rub together. The joint becomes inflamed, bone spurs may form, and movement becomes painful and stiff. Shoulder arthritis can affect the main ball-and-socket joint or the smaller acromioclavicular (AC) joint at the top of the shoulder.
Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
- Deep, aching pain in the shoulder that worsens with activity
- Stiffness and loss of range of motion
- Grinding, clicking, or catching when moving the arm
- Pain at night that makes it hard to sleep
- Difficulty reaching overhead, behind your back, or across your body
Risk Factors
Shoulder osteoarthritis is more common after age 50. Previous shoulder injuries, dislocations, fractures, long-standing rotator cuff tears, repetitive overhead work or sports, and a family history of arthritis can all increase your risk.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Treatment focuses on reducing pain and keeping your shoulder moving. A glenohumeral joint injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the shoulder joint and can provide relief for weeks to months. When pain comes from the top of the shoulder or overlapping tendon problems, other joint injections or a subacromial injection may help. Prolotherapy may strengthen supporting ligaments and tendons, and trigger point injections can relieve tight surrounding muscles.
Gentle exercise and physical therapy help preserve strength and flexibility. Read our guide on living with osteoarthritis, learn about frozen shoulder, and explore our shoulder and arm pain treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Osteoarthritis Treatment
What does shoulder arthritis feel like?
It typically causes deep, aching pain, stiffness, and grinding when you move your arm, often with pain at night.
Can shoulder arthritis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Joint injections, therapy, and activity changes help many patients manage pain and stay active.
How long do shoulder injections last?
Relief from a shoulder joint injection often lasts several weeks to months.
Can a rotator cuff tear lead to arthritis?
Yes. Long-standing rotator cuff tears can change how the shoulder moves and lead to arthritis over time.
Is exercise safe with shoulder arthritis?
Gentle, guided exercise helps preserve motion and strength. Your provider can recommend safe activities.
When is shoulder replacement considered?
Replacement may be considered if pain remains severe and limits daily life despite non-surgical care.
Where can I get treatment?
LA Pain Doctor treats shoulder osteoarthritis at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Reach Higher With Less Pain
Get relief from shoulder arthritis. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.