What is Arthritis of the Shoulder?

Arthritis refers to the inflammation of joints, and in the case of the shoulder, it is caused by the deterioration of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the bones within the joint. As cartilage wears away, it leads to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Initially, the pain is often due to inflammation, but as the cartilage wears away completely, the bones may rub together, causing severe mechanical friction and discomfort.

Types of Shoulder Arthritis

There are two main types of arthritis that affect the shoulder joint:

• Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease): This is the most common form of arthritis, often affecting older individuals. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the shoulder joint deteriorates over time. In severe cases, this leads to bone-on-bone contact, resulting in pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. Bone spurs may also develop around the joint.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disease causes the body’s immune system to attack the healthy tissue in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. It often affects women and can cause joint deformities over time. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects both sides of the body symmetrically, impacting joints like the hands, wrists, and shoulders.

Causes of Shoulder Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: Primarily caused by the wear and tear of cartilage, which may result from aging, overuse, or previous joint injuries. It can also be secondary to other joint conditions or trauma.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Often triggered by environmental factors or infections in those with genetic susceptibility. This condition leads to the body producing antibodies that attack the joints, causing inflammation and pain.

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

Symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of arthritis but commonly include:

• Swelling, pain, and tenderness in the shoulder joint, especially during movement
• Reduced range of motion and stiffness, particularly in the morning
• Redness or warmth around the joint
• Bone spurs or excessive bone growth around the joint edges (visible on X-rays)
• Gradual difficulty in performing everyday activities such as lifting or reaching overhead

Diagnosis of Shoulder Arthritis

To diagnose shoulder arthritis, we conducts a thorough physical examination and reviews the patient’s medical history. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, are used to confirm the extent of cartilage damage, joint inflammation, and bone spurs. These diagnostic tools help create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the patient’s condition.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Arthritis

While there is no cure for arthritis, a variety of treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve joint function.

• Conservative Treatments:
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility around the shoulder joint
  • Occupational therapy for assistance in daily activities
  • Joint injections (steroids or hyaluronic acid) to alleviate pain and inflammation
  • Activity modification to reduce strain on the affected joint
• Surgical Treatments:
  If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options depend on the severity of arthritis and the patient’s age:
  • Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA): In cases of severe arthritis, a complete shoulder replacement may be performed, where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis.
  • Hemiarthroplasty: In certain cases, only the ball of the shoulder joint is replaced, preserving the socket.
  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that can be used to remove bone spurs, smooth damaged cartilage, or address other joint issues.

We offer advanced and compassionate care for patients suffering from shoulder arthritis, focusing on providing long-term solutions to reduce pain and improve function. Whether through physical therapy, medications, or advanced surgical techniques, We are dedicated to helping patients regain their quality of life. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or stiffness, schedule a consultation today to discuss personalized treatment options and get on the path to recovery.