Non-operative shoulder arthritis treatment

Early stages of shoulder arthritis can be treated without surgery, using medication, injections, and physical therapy.

Shoulder arthritis is when the cartilage between the bones in the shoulder wears away and the bones rub against each other. It may be caused by wear and tear due to age, a traumatic injury, or repetitive motions.

Exercising can help lubricate the joint, strengthen the muscles around your shoulder, and make it easier to keep moving. You can talk with a physical therapist to get exercises specific to helping your shoulder.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help relieve pain. If they don’t work, your doctor may be able to give you a prescription.

Steroid injections into your shoulder joint can help with pain temporarily.

If the non-surgical treatments don’t work, you may need surgery such as a total shoulder replacementA_a393e1ec,A_0bac3498.

Non-operative shoulder arthritis treatment physicians

Find a specialist in your location.