How Arthritis Can Cause Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can make even the simplest daily tasks—from reaching for a mug to putting on a jacket—feel challenging. One common cause that many people overlook? Arthritis. If you’re dealing with ongoing shoulder pain and arthritis is part of your medical history, they’re likely connected. Understanding this connection can help you find the right treatment.
Fortunately, physical therapy is an effective approach for managing arthritis symptoms. At Total Health & Rehabilitation, we regularly help people living with the two most common types: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both can affect the shoulder, as two recent patients of ours found (their names have been changed).
Marcus’ Story: Living with Shoulder Osteoarthritis
Marcus came to our clinic with a dull, aching pain in his right shoulder that had been getting worse for over a year. He struggled with reaching overhead and noticed that his range of motion was shrinking. An X-ray confirmed shoulder osteoarthritis.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition. Over time, the smooth cartilage that protects the ends of your bones breaks down. In the shoulder, this can cause:
- Pain with movement
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Grinding or clicking sounds
- Weakness in the arm or shoulder
One of the hallmarks of OA is pain that worsens over time, especially in weight-bearing and frequently used joints like the shoulder. This was precisely what Marcus was experiencing.
How Physical Therapy Helped Marcus
Marcus’s treatment focused on gentle, progressive exercises to improve mobility and strengthen the muscles supporting his shoulder joint. His plan included:
- Manual therapy techniques to relieve pain
- Stretching routines to reduce stiffness
- Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and upper back
- Postural training to reduce stress on the joint
OA doesn’t have a cure, but with regular sessions and at-home practice, Marcus regained his ability to lift her arm and saw a significant drop in daily pain.
Sharon’s Story: Managing Shoulder Pain Caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sharon was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in her 40s. When she came to the clinic, her biggest complaint was pain and swelling in both shoulders, especially in the morning. She also experienced general fatigue and occasional flare-ups in her hands and knees.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Unlike OA, which is caused by joint degeneration, RA is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation. It often affects the shoulder, leading to:
- Swelling and warmth
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Fatigue and joint tenderness
- Flare-ups that affect multiple joints at once
RA can be more unpredictable than osteoarthritis. It often affects multiple joints and may come with fatigue, swelling, and even fever during flare-ups.
How Physical Therapy Helped Sharon
Sharon’s treatment plan focused on managing inflammation, improving shoulder function, and reducing strain on painful joints. Her PT sessions included:
- Range-of-motion exercises to keep shoulder joints mobile
- Low-impact strengthening using resistance bands
- Joint protection techniques to avoid overuse
- Energy conservation strategies to manage fatigue
On days when Sharon felt particularly sore or fatigued, her physical therapist modified her exercises to keep her progressing safely. Over time, she noticed fewer flare-ups and could return to her favorite hobbies, including gardening and swimming.
Why Physical Therapy Is Key for Managing Shoulder Arthritis
Physical therapy offers a safe and effective way to manage shoulder pain and arthritis. Some of the benefits include:
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved mobility and joint function
- Increased strength and endurance
- Personalized strategies to protect your joints
Ready to Manage Your Shoulder Pain?
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain and arthritis is a factor, help is available. At Total Health & Rehabilitation, our licensed physical therapists create customized treatment plans to help you move better and feel stronger, no matter your diagnosis. Schedule an appointment with us today to get started.