Shoulder Arthritis Experts in san antonio
What is shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder Arthritis, also known as Glenohumeral Arthritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation, pain, and cartilage deterioration in the shoulder. The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the upper arm bones (humerus) meet the shoulder blades (scapulae). These bones have cartilage coverings at their ends, which allow smooth movement and cushion the joint. Typically, Shoulder Arthritis affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and a reduction in range of motion.
What are the types of shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis comes in several forms, each with its own symptoms and treatment options. There are three main types of shoulder arthritis:
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis, which results in gradual degeneration of the shoulder joint cartilage, is the most common type of shoulder arthritis. The condition is usually associated with aging and wear and tear over time. Additionally, shoulder pain can be caused by repetitive use, overuse, or previous shoulder injuries.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: In Rheumatoid Arthritis, the body's immune system attacks the synovium (lining of joint membranes). Inflammatory arthritis can affect both shoulders at the same time.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: A form of Osteoarthritis called Post-Traumatic Arthritis occurs gradually after a joint injury. Because arthritis develops gradually, it's hard to pinpoint when the condition began. Injuries or trauma to the shoulder can cause cartilage to deteriorate, resulting in post-traumatic arthritis. Post-traumatic arthritis can also be caused by an injury that has not healed properly.
What are the common symptoms of shoulder arthritis?
Depending on the type of arthritis you have, you may experience different symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
Stiffness: An immobilized or tight shoulder joint, restricting arm movement.
Weakness: Decreased strength in the affected shoulder and upper arm muscles.
Joint Pain: A dull or sharp pain in the shoulder joint or surrounding areas that may worsen with activity.
Limited Range of Motion: The inability to carry out everyday activities such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, or combing hair without difficulty.
Inflammation & Swelling: Swelling, inflammation, and/or tenderness in the shoulder joint.
What are my treatment options f0r shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis treatment aims to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further damage to the joints. Our solutions are tailored to meet your needs. Our expert staff is here to provide guidance and expertise, whether you are looking for non-surgical alternatives or considering surgical treatments. These may include:
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Ice application.
Steroid injections.
Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications.
Range of motion exercises and stretches.
An exercise program or physical therapy to improve shoulder flexibility, strength, and function.
Joint protection techniques.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Arthroplasty
Joint Resurfacing
Synovectomy
Tendon Repair
Osteotomy
Depending on the patient's individual circumstances, shoulder arthritis treatments will vary. It's essential to consult with a shoulder specialist to determine the most suitable course of action based on your condition.
Arthritis of the shoulder can have a significant impact on your quality of life, making simple tasks challenging and reducing your quality of life overall. When shoulder arthritis persists or worsens, patients should see a doctor as soon as possible so they can identify the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment.
If you are experiencing shoulder arthritis, you've come to the right place. Our experienced orthopedic team specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions in San Antonio, texas.
Dr. Srinivasan
Fellowship-Trained, Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Meet our SHOULDER Specialist
Dr. Srinivasan is a specialist in treating shoulder, elbow, and hand injuries. He has a vast knowledge of both arthroscopic and open techniques for ligament, meniscus, cartilage, rotator cuff, and labrum injuries as well as shoulder replacement surgery. He loves treating patients of all ages and abilities, helping them to get back to their favorite activities. He is dedicated to providing the best possible care and getting them back on the path to living their best life.
Dr. Srinivasan was named a Texas Monthly Super Doctor rising star in 2015, 2016, and 2017 and a Super Doctor in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023!
why come to The Hand and Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio for your shoulder Arthritis?
When you visit us at The Hand and Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio, you will find a fine-tuned team ready to take care of you. Your physicians have over 100 years of collective experience and represent multiple generations and training backgrounds. In addition to your surgeons, you may meet one of our hand surgery fellows. Each fellow is a fully trained orthopaedic or plastic surgeon who has completed 5 to 7 years of surgical training after graduation from medical school and has chosen to spend an additional year in training to study hand surgery. In addition to the physicians, you will meet various staff members. From the front desk staff and Medical Assistants (MA’s) to the x-ray and cast technicians, each is committed to taking care of you.
Meet OUr Physicians
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David P. Green, M.D.
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Mark Bagg, M.D.
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David W. Person, M.D., FACS.
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Ramesh C. Srinivasan, M.D.
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Kunj Desai, M.D., FACS.
Other Shoulder Related Issues we can help with
Fractures
Dislocations
Instability
SLAP Lesions
check out our latest blog posts regarding shoulder injuries
Did you know we offer in-house therapy?
Hand therapy is a merging of occupational and physical therapy theory and practice that combines comprehensive knowledge of the structure of the upper limb with function and activity. Using specialized skills in assessment, planning and treatment, hand therapists provide therapeutic interventions to prevent dysfunction, restore function and/or reverse the progression of pathology of the upper limb in order to enhance an individual’s ability to execute tasks and to participate fully in life situations.
