Osteoarthritis (OA) can be the most common form of arthritis. It’s caused when the smooth cartilage surface of an articulating/moving joint wears away until there is bone-on-bone contact. This can result in both loss of movement and pain. Although OA most commonly affects the joints under the hips and the knees, it can occur in any moving joint. Even including the joints that make up the shoulder.
Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. It relies on a process called diffusion. With diffusion, nutrients are absorbed into cartilage when it’s compressed by movement. Anything like inflammation or injury can slow or cut off its supply of nutrients. This places the tissue at risk for injury and degeneration.
When a patient receives care involving OA of the shoulder, chiropractic treatment will focus on improving the motion of the affected joints. Manipulation, mobilization, manual traction, manual massage, active release techniques, and more are used during treatment.
Additional ways to Self-Manage Osteoarthritis
- Staying active. Movement and exercise is the best way to keep joint cartilage nourished and healthy. People can manage their pain often without medication by simply pacing themselves and staying active.
- A Healthy Diet. Balance your diet and emphasize foods that reduce inflammation or swelling. These can include items like omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil), ginger, turmeric, Boswellia, and more.
- Decrease the Load on the Joints. This includes losing weight, as well as modifying job/lifestyle activities that place force on the affected joints.
- Get Plenty of Sleep. When resting, too little or too much sleep each night can lead to poor outcomes. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep.
- Use hot/cold packs as a great way to reduce inflammation.
- Supplements: Consider glucosamine and chondroitin.
Generally, the more advanced the case, the longer it takes to achieve a successful outcome. It’s important to seek care sooner than later when you experience pain in the shoulder or any other part of the body.
