If you are suffering from shoulder arthritis in Paramus, NJ, you know that it can cause significant pain and a considerable loss of mobility in your shoulder. Dr. Roger Pollock, an orthopedic shoulder specialist, has the expertise needed to help you modify your lifestyle in ways that make it easier to live with shoulder arthritis.

Pain is the most common symptom of shoulder arthritis. When your shoulder hurts all the time, it has a major impact on your everyday life and activities. Lifestyle modifications can help with pain management. That is not to say that you shouldn't take advantage of other pain management options. OTC or prescription pain relievers (NSAIDs) are also potentially beneficial.

Stretches

The pain in your shoulder may make you hesitate to engage in any fitness activities. Nonetheless, low-impact exercise and stretches in particular can help strengthen the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that support your shoulder. This could help ease the pain while increasing your shoulder's flexibility and range of motion. Your doctor will provide a series of exercises for you to perform. You can do low-impact exercises on your own; examples include swimming and yoga. 

Ergonomics

Posture is important to the health of your shoulder. If you spend hours putting stress on a shoulder that is already damaged by arthritis, it is not going to help the situation. It isn't just about work; think about how you hold your phone, your position when you drive, and your position when you sleep. 

Managing Stress

You may wonder what stress has to do with shoulder pain caused by arthritis. Quite a lot. When you are feeling stressed, the muscles in your shoulder will tighten up and add to the pain you experience. It helps to practice relaxation techniques like meditation and use deep breathing when you do stretches.

Get Enough Sleep

When you sleep, your body repairs itself. That's why you need to get enough sleep so that your body can recover. Pain may keep you from sleeping, so it is difficult to balance. 

Contact Dr. Pollock when you are suffering from shoulder arthritis in Paramus, NJ. We provide services for residents of Bergen County. Make an appointment today by giving our office a call at (201) 612-9774.