When doing day-to-day tasks, there are few things more de-motivating than dealing with shoulder pain. This is especially true for people who have been diagnosed with shoulder arthritis, a condition that can cause immense pain and discomfort. 

Despite the pain and annoyance, it’s important to remember that properly managing shoulder arthritis can help make daily life more manageable. Here are five tips to help you deal with the effects of shoulder arthritis:

1. Use Appropriate Painkillers and Pain Relieving Creams

The right medications or ointments can work wonders in providing relief from the pain of shoulder arthritis. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any medication so they can recommend the best option for you. 

Too many patients make the mistake of not taking advantage of what medications can do for them. Stay away from home remedies and other treatments that have not been prescribed by your doctor.

2. Try Gentle Shoulder Exercises and Stretches

Gentle exercises and stretches can help greatly in reducing the pain of shoulder arthritis. Working with a physical therapist or another health professional is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting the right exercise for your needs, but you want to make sure that they aren’t being too aggressive as this could aggravate the situation.

If this isn’t an option, be sure to research gentle stretching routines online, which are specifically designed for people suffering from shoulder arthritis. Proper shoulder exercises that help those with arthritis may include:

  • Shoulder Circles: Moving the shoulders in a circular motion will help stretch the muscles.
  • Arm Raises: Slowly lifting your arms above your head will help stretch the shoulder muscles and improve their range of motion.
  • Neck Stretches: Gently stretching the neck can often relieve any pain or tension that is being felt in the shoulder area.

3. Reduce Shoulder Strain

One of the ways to reduce pain from shoulder arthritis is by reducing strain on your joints and ligaments. This means avoiding activities that put too much pressure on these areas, such as carrying heavy loads or participating in contact sports. Sitting for long periods of time can also be damaging, so make sure to get up and move around regularly throughout the day.

4. Balance Activity and Rest

It’s important to find the right balance between activity and rest for optimal pain relief. Don’t push yourself too hard – focus on activities that don’t require much movement or strain on your shoulder, such as reading a book or watching TV. At the same time, it is equally important not to become sedentary – try to move around in some way during the day so you can keep your body active and alleviate joint stiffness.

5. Talk to Your Doctor About Professional Intervention

In some cases, professional medical intervention may be necessary in order to manage shoulder arthritis effectively. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend an injection of steroids or even surgery in the form of a shoulder replacement. Be sure to discuss any options thoroughly with your doctor and make an informed decision about what’s best for you.

Get Treated Today!

Don’t let shoulder arthritis cramp your daily life – get it treated properly so that you can move comfortably and without pain. Dr. Daniel Hatch is one of the top providers of shoulder treatments in the country, and he is well-equipped to help you manage symptoms and regain a full range of motion in your shoulder joints. Don’t hesitate to contact The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic today if you have any questions or require assistance regarding shoulder arthritis treatment.