If you are feeling pain in your shoulder when or after you move it, it is possible you have Shoulder Osteoarthritis (OA). This pain is often accompanied by a limited range of motion, or clicking or creaking sounds. Also referred to as degenerative arthritis of the shoulder, Shoulder Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that covers the top of the bone degenerates or wears down. This degeneration is what causes swelling and pain. The condition is more common in people over 50, however younger people who have suffered an injury such as a dislocated shoulder or fracture to their shoulder can also become afflicted with the condition.

Diagnosis for shoulder osteoarthritis (OA)

The best way to find out for sure if you are suffering from Shoulder Osteoarthritis is to see a specialist. At the London Pain Clinic our experts will be able to help find the cause of your Shoulder Osteoarthritis with the use of state-of-the-art technology and the latest in medical advancements. Blood and other fluid tests also enable us to check if you have rheumatoid arthritis or another disease that may be the cause of your Shoulder Osteoarthritis. At the London Pain Clinic:

• You can expect a comprehensive, exacting approach to your diagnosis of Shoulder Osteoarthritis (OA)
• A walk through of your previous medical history is where your pain specialist will begin
• A physical exam of the shoulder will also be done to determine things such as muscle weakness and previous injury
• A comprehensive approach normally includes diagnostic imagining, which will be at your convenience. Your doctor may schedule an MRI or an X-Ray
• Other tests such as injecting Lidocaine to determine arthritis and other lab tests to rule out gout and infections will be made quickly and efficiently for you
• Visiting one of our doctors for their renowned second opinion service is also a good idea for patients who feel they may have been misdiagnosed in the past.

Treatment for Shoulder Osteoarthritis (OA)

Treatment for your Shoulder Osteoarthritis can take on several forms. It is important to see a doctor as soon as symptoms appear to avoid further injury or increased pain. Each patient will require his or her own special form of treatment and at the London Pain Clinic:

• Our doctors will work one-on-one with you to create a personalized individual treatment plan that works best for you
• Your doctor will never send you home with only a generalized recommendation
• In most instances, multidisciplinary treatment and pain management will be the best treatment combination. This will often include medication and daily muscle strengthening in the form of a specialized exercise.

Getting an accurate diagnosis for your Shoulder Osteoarthritis is the beginning of your healing process. With a correct diagnosis, our experts can determine the best treatment and help you to avoid additional problems in the future. Take the first step in getting your life back to its best by making an appointment with a pain specialist at the London Pain Clinic. To begin your recovery, call 020 7118 0250 or email the London Pain Clinic.