Osteonecrosis Of Shoulder

Osteonecrosis is a degenerative condition that diminishes the health of the bones and the joints that they form by restricting adequate supply. Direct trauma to the bone, excessive consumption of steroids, alcohol, or tobacco, and prolonged exposure to radiation are some of the known trigger factors for Osteonecrosis.

Shoulder joint osteonecrosis can result in degeneration and damage to the humerus which is the bone in the upper arm. Osteonecrosis will reduce the bone density of the humerus and also weaken its structure. This reduces the weight bearing strength of the bone and compromises the shoulder joint functions.

Diagnosing Osteonecrosis Of Shoulder

A shoulder surgeon in Lilavati hospital Mumbai diagnoses osteonecrosis of the shoulder by assessing the patient’s symptoms, performing a detailed physical examination, and reviewing the patient’s X-Ray reports.

• Symptoms

Pain is the most common presenting symptom of osteonecrosis of the shoulder joint. It may not be present during the initial stages of the disease but may develop later when the humerus bone and the shoulder joint have suffered extensive disintegration. The type and intensity of the pain depends on the severity of the osteonecrosis.

Patients may report experiencing the pain only when they apply pressure on the affected shoulder,or lift or move heavy weights by hand. A shoulder specialist in Mumbai will arrive at a conclusion about the patient’s diagnosis after performing a physical examination.

• Radiodiagnosis

Advanced osteonecrosis portrays reduced bone density and a worn out bone structure in X-Rays and CT scans. Bone scans of the affected shoulder joint may also be helpful in confirming the diagnosis of osteonecrosis.

• Treatment Of Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis of the shoulder can be treated medically, surgically, or with a combination of both the therapies. Non-medical treatments like physiotherapy and exercise therapy also help towards strengthening the weakened shoulder joint.

• Medication

Patients with osteonecrosis of the shoulder joint are often prescribed anti-inflammatory medicines, and steroids. Some patients may even require nutritional supplements and blood thinning medication to prevent aggravation of their symptoms.

• Surgery

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery might help to revert the symptoms of shoulder osteonecrosis. Surgery may also be performed to remove a wedge of the bone to reduce the pressure on the affected shoulder joint. Almost every arthroscopic surgeon in Breach Candy hospital Mumbai advises advanced treatment in the form of joint replacement for severe osteonecrosis.

Other than mainstream treatment, patients may also require non-medical treatment in the form of exercise and physiotherapy. Patients are required to consult with a physiotherapist at regular intervals for treating the symptoms of osteonecrosis, depending on the severity of their condition. Doctors will also advise their patients to avoid overstraining the affected shoulder joint to prevent further tissue degeneration.

Do not neglect your shoulder pain; see an orthopaedic doctor immediately to avoid any health complications. Consult Dr. Amyn Rajani, orthopaedic doctor in Mumbai immediately for further treatment. Book an Appointment at 91-88989 75355, 91-98202 09137, 91-22-23619137.