Can Ignoring Shoulder Pain Lead to Arthritis

CLEARWATER, Fla. - May 22, 2013 - PRLog -- Shoulders problems are a frequent problem in athletes and non-athletes alike.

Trauma is a known predisposing factor for the development of arthritis, and now genetic factors have also been implicated in the development of arthritis. Pain may arise from an old injury, or is the initial symptom of arthritis in some cases. Anatomic variants such as a down sloping acromion, may predispose the rotator cuff tendon towards impingement.

Overuse from repetitive overhead activities in sports or occupation can lead to accelerated wear and tear as well. Dr. Dennis Lox a Sports and Regenerative Medicine specialist in the Tampa Bay Florida area, is well versed in shoulder pain and arthritis.

Dr. Lox www.drlox.com  Practices with an emphasis on joint protection and preventing arthritis development and progression. If pain is persistent and ignored, joint injury can occur. As micro trauma begins, the cumulative effects can erode the normal cartilage or damage the tendons resulting in fraying. If this process continues and pain ensues, it may be a warning sign of the wear and tear effects of early arthritis. Improper treatment, or delaying care that may be prevented can lead to significant joint damage that manifests as arthritis damage on x-rays. By the time the effects are noted in x-ray, significant arthritis has already occurred. Trying to avoid the x-ray findings by early and proper care should be the goal of proper treatment, rehabilitation and preventive arthritis care when it can be implemented. Common treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and cortisone injections, are not effective in preventing arthritis. This medications temporarily alleviate symptoms in some cases. Regenerative Medicine therapies such Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or Stem Cell Therapy focus on these issues by healing and repairing joint tissue. Shoulder pain is often treated surgically, however, surgery is a form of trauma as well, and has been shown to increase the incidence of arthritis long term. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cell Therapy, may be an alternative to surgical intervention. Treatment strategies that may lessen arthritis risk, may also be used as a strategy to avoid shoulder joint replacement. Dr. Lox has been practicing in the Tampa Bay Florida area for over 20 years. He performs regenerative medicine procedures in his main Clearwater Florida office.

The long term effects of ignoring shoulder pain may lead to arthritis development, however early treatment may delay or retard the development of arthritis.

About Dr. Dennis Lox

Dr. Lox has been practicing in Florida for over 20 years. He specializes in Regenerative and Sports Medicine. Dr. Lox's main office is located at 2030 Drew St., Clearwater, Florida. for more information call (727) 462-5582 or visit www.drlox.com .