Final answer:
Treatment for glenoid osteoarthritis with a reparable rotator cuff tear involves a combination of exercise, stress reduction on joints, pain medication, and potentially surgery, such as arthroscopic surgery or joint replacement, depending on the severity.
Step-by-step explanation:
For someone experiencing glenoid osteoarthritis with a reparable rotator cuff (RC) tear, the treatment cannot cure OA, but can successfully reduce symptoms. The therapy may include a mix of exercise, techniques to lessen joint stress, pain management through medications, and potentially surgery.
A comprehensive approach to managing pain and improving function typically involves lifestyle modifications, like exercising to strengthen the muscles around the joint and losing weight to decrease stress on the affected area. Physical therapy may be prescribed to improve range of motion and strength, while medications can help in managing discomfort.
In cases where non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgical interventions such as arthroscopic surgery might be considered. This minimally invasive surgery can repair the torn rotator cuff and bring considerable pain relief and improved function. For severe osteoarthritis, particularly when it affects the hip or knee joints, joint replacement surgery might be a viable option. These surgeries have a long recovery period, but the artificial joints usually yield a significant improvement in quality of life for an extended time.
The specific course of treatment should be personalized based on the individual's condition, the severity of the osteoarthritis, and the characteristics of the rotator cuff tear.