Introduction
Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects the glenohumeral joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre is offering cutting-edge, scientifically supported physiotherapy, designed to successfully treat shoulder OA.
Causes and Mechanism of Injury
The glenohumeral joint’s articular cartilage gradually deteriorating is the main cause of shoulder OA. Among the contributing elements are:
- Age-related degeneration: Degeneration brought on by aging is common in those over 60.
- Previous shoulder injuries: Dislocations or fractures may accelerate the degeneration of cartilage.
- Repetitive overhead activities: Manual laborers and athletes are particularly vulnerable to repetitive overhead activities.
- Genetic predisposition: An important factor may be family history.
Pain and restricted mobility result from the degeneration’s effects on subchondral bone alterations, osteophyte formation, and joint space constriction.
Clinical Features
Shoulder OA patients frequently exhibit:
- Chronic shoulder pain: Gets better when you rest and gets worse when you move.
- Stiffness: Especially after periods of inactivity.
- Crepitus: A grating feeling when moving the shoulder.
- Limited range of motion: Having trouble raising the arm or carrying out overhead tasks.
Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy
Our thorough evaluation consists of:
- A thorough patient history: Helps determine the type, severity, and timing of symptoms.
- Physical examination: Evaluating joint mobility, muscle strength, and posture.
- Specialized physiotherapy tests: Neer’s and Hawkins-Kennedy tests are used to assess joint integrity and impingement.
- Functional assessments: Measuring the effect on day-to-day activities using instruments such as the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI).
These assessments aid in creating a customized treatment strategy.
Advanced Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy
Using a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and cutting-edge techniques, our treatment approach aims to reduce pain, restore function, and stop more joint degradation.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques are employed to:
- Improve joint mobility: Increase range of motion in your joints with mild mobilizations.
- Reduce muscle tension: To ease tightness, apply a soft tissue massage.
Therapeutic Exercises
Customized exercise programs are designed to:
- Strengthen rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers: Enhancing shoulder stability.
- Improve flexibility: Stretching activities might help you become more flexible and less stiff.
- Enhance proprioception: Improve proprioception with workouts for balance and coordination to avoid injuries and falls.
Postural Correction and Ergonomic Advice
Educating patients on maintaining proper posture and modifying daily activities to reduce shoulder strain is integral to our approach.
Integration of Advanced Modalities
At Elite Physiotherapy, we incorporate cutting-edge technologies to augment traditional physiotherapy treatments:
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)
- ESWT reduces pain and encourages tissue regeneration by applying high-energy sound waves to the affected area. Research has demonstrated its efficacy in enhancing shoulder function and reducing discomfort.
Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer (CRET) Therapy
- Deep tissue heating is produced by CRET therapy using radiofrequency energy, which improves blood flow and speeds up the healing process. In cases of osteoarthritis, it helps to improve joint mobility and lessen pain.
Super Inductive System (SIS)
- High-intensity electromagnetic fields are used by SIS to activate muscles and relieve pain by stimulating neuromuscular tissue. Patients with pain-related reduced movement will find it especially helpful.
High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy
- By delivering concentrated light energy to deep tissues, this method speeds up tissue healing and reduces inflammation. It improves functional results and effectively manages chronic shoulder pain.
Hydrotherapy
- Warm water exercise reduces joint tension and promotes efficient movement by providing buoyancy. Strength, flexibility, and general joint function are all enhanced by hydrotherapy.
Cryotherapy
- Cold treatment numbs pain and reduces inflammation. It is very helpful for reducing discomfort after manual therapy sessions or after exercise.
Personalized Care at Elite Physiotherapy
Our team of experienced physiotherapists ensures that each patient receives individualized care tailored to their specific needs and goals. Regular assessments and progress tracking allow for timely modifications to the treatment plan, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Conclusion
Although shoulder osteoarthritis can have a major negative influence on a person’s quality of life, its effects can be effectively treated with the correct care. Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre offers comprehensive care, intending to regain function and reduce pain by combining cutting-edge modalities with classic physiotherapy procedures.