Osteoarthritis in the shoulder: Manifestations, origins, therapy options
In the realm of joint health, shoulder osteoarthritis is a common concern, particularly for individuals over 50 years old. This condition, characterised by the wearing down of the cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint, can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
The road to developing shoulder osteoarthritis is often paved by a combination of factors. Age-related degeneration, genetics, previous injuries, mechanical stress, obesity, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions all contribute to the risk of this joint disorder.
Age, as we age, degenerative joint changes accumulate, making older individuals more susceptible [2][4]. Previous shoulder injuries or trauma, such as fractures, dislocations, or rotator cuff tears, can damage cartilage or alter joint mechanics, leading to early arthritis [2][3][4]. Family history or genetic predisposition indicates hereditary factors play a significant role [1][2]. Mechanical stress on the joint, from congenital or acquired bone misalignments, repetitive high joint stress, and loss of muscle strength supporting the joint, also increases the risk [1][2]. Obesity or excess body weight contributes via mechanical overload and possibly metabolic factors related to body fat [1]. Sex hormone changes, particularly in post-menopausal women, may increase the risk due to protective effects lost due to declining female hormones [1]. Conditions like avascular necrosis (AVN) of the humeral head, caused by compromised blood supply and often triggered by steroid use or other diseases, and rotator cuff arthropathy, from untreated chronic rotator cuff tears, can also lead to osteoarthritis [3].
Treatment for shoulder osteoarthritis is typically nonsurgical and may include physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and heat or cold therapy. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery, such as arthroscopy to remove loose pieces of bone or cartilage, or replacing damaged joints with an implant made from plastic, ceramic, or metal [1].
Shoulder osteoarthritis affects nearly one in three people over 60 years old, and it can feel painful and cause stiffness. Stiffness is often more prominent first thing in the morning or after sitting for a length of time. Doctors diagnose the condition by asking questions about symptoms, taking a full medical history, and performing a physical examination. A physical examination and X-rays can help with reaching an accurate diagnosis.
Playing overhead or contact sports, performing heavy lifting tasks, and a history of shoulder injury may increase the risk of secondary osteoarthritis of the shoulder. Secondary osteoarthritis typically has a known cause and can happen as a result of injuries, a history of shoulder dislocations, rotator cuff tear, or infection.
It's important to note that shoulder osteoarthritis is not as common as osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. However, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for early detection and effective management. If you experience persistent pain and stiffness around your shoulder joint, seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
- The musculoskeletal system, including the bones, is a significant focus in science, and shoulder osteoarthritis falls under this category.
- In the workplace-wellness discussions, chronic medical conditions like osteoarthritis should not be overlooked.
- Osteoarthritis and other chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, cancer, respiratory conditions, and digestive health issues are common concerns in the medical field.
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- Fitness and exercise, when practiced correctly, can help manage osteoarthritis symptoms.
- Autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, could exacerbate osteoarthritis symptoms.
- Climate change, due to its impact on air and water quality, can indirectly affect bone health.
- Investing in renewable energy sources and efficient manufacturing processes is crucial to reduce emissions that contribute to climate change.
- Mental health is equally important in healthcare, and untreated mental health issues can cause physical symptoms, including joint pain.
- Skin conditions, if left untreated, could lead to secondary infections, putting additional strain on joints.
- Therapies and treatments for osteoarthritis and other chronic diseases are continuously evolving as science progresses.
- Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining cardiovascular health, which in turn can help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
- The industry, including environmental science, finance, energy, retail, entrepreneurship, transportation, and technology, all have a role in shaping the healthcare landscape.
- Leadership within these industries should prioritize diversity and inclusion to ensure equitable access to healthcare resources.
- Wearables and smartphones can help monitor various health indicators, including joint health, facilitating early detection and management of osteoarthritis.
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- Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can affect an individual's ability to manage chronic diseases like osteoarthritis.
- Skin-care routine should be tailored to individual needs and a dermatologist's recommendations to maintain skin health.
- Hospitals and clinics must adapt to technology, integrating telemedicine, electronic health records, and automated processes to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.
- Fintech, venture capital, and private equity can provide essential funding for innovative health solutions and research.
- Personal-finance management is crucial for covering medical expenses associated with osteoarthritis treatments and managing associated debt.
- Banking and insurance companies should offer products tailored to healthcare-related financial needs.
- Real estate development should prioritize accessible housing options for people with chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Smartphones and gadgets can help with budgeting, debt management, and investing for financial stability.
- Commercial and residential sectors should implement energy-efficient measures to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
- The stock market fluctuations can impact savings, retirement plans, and wealth management, making it essential for individuals and small businesses to plan for financial uncertainty.
