Shoulder Arthritis: Symptoms & Treatments

Most people associate arthritis with the hands, knees, or hips, but it can affect any joint in the body, including the shoulder. Shoulder arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, making everyday activities like reaching for a high shelf or even combing your hair a challenge. Understanding the condition is the first step toward finding effective relief and regaining function.

This guide will explain the different types of shoulder arthritis, their common symptoms, and the various treatment options available. By learning more about this condition, you can make informed decisions about your health and find the right path to managing your symptoms. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, this information can help you understand what might be happening and what steps to take next.

What is Shoulder Arthritis?

The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion. It consists of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). The head of the humerus fits into a shallow socket on the scapula called the glenoid. A smooth, slippery tissue called articular cartilage covers the surfaces of these bones, allowing them to glide smoothly against each other.

Shoulder arthritis occurs when this protective cartilage gradually wears away. Without this cushion, the bones rub directly against each other, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Over time, this friction can lead to the formation of bone spurs, further restricting movement and increasing discomfort.

Types of Shoulder Arthritis

There are several different types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder. Understanding which type you have is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan.

1. Osteoarthritis

This is the most common form of arthritis, often referred to as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It develops slowly over many years as the cartilage in the shoulder joint breaks down. Osteoarthritis is more common in people over 50 and is a primary reason individuals seek an orthopedic surgeon in Debary, FL.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, including the lining of the joints (synovium). This causes chronic inflammation that can destroy cartilage and bone, leading to severe joint damage. RA often affects multiple joints on both sides of the body.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

This type of arthritis develops after a shoulder injury, such as a fracture, dislocation, or severe rotator cuff tear. The injury can damage the cartilage directly or alter the joint's mechanics, leading to accelerated wear and tear over time.

4. Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy

A massive, long-standing tear of the rotator cuff tendons can lead to a specific type of shoulder arthritis. The rotator cuff muscles help keep the head of the humerus centered in the glenoid socket. When these tendons are severely torn, the humerus can move upward and rub against the acromion (the top of the shoulder blade), causing cartilage damage and arthritis.

5. Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis (AVN) occurs when the blood supply to the head of the humerus is disrupted. Without adequate blood, the bone cells die, and the humeral head can collapse, damaging the articular cartilage. Causes of AVN can include long-term steroid use, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

The symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but some common signs include:

Pain: This is the most prevalent symptom. The pain is often a deep ache in the joint that worsens with activity and may interfere with sleep. You might feel pain in the back, side, or top of your shoulder.
Stiffness: You may experience a limited range of motion, making it difficult to lift your arm, reach behind your back, or perform overhead activities.
Grinding or Clicking: A sensation of grinding, catching, or clicking (crepitus) within the shoulder joint during movement is common as the bones rub against each other.
Weakness: The pain and stiffness can lead to weakness in the shoulder, making it difficult to lift or carry objects.
Swelling: Inflammation can cause the shoulder joint to swell, although this is sometimes less noticeable than in other joints like the knee.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to consult a specialist. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you toward the best course of treatment.

How is Shoulder Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose shoulder arthritis, your doctor will start with a physical examination and a review of your medical history. They will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life. During the physical exam, the doctor will assess your shoulder's range of motion, strength, and check for signs of tenderness or crepitus.

To confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the damage, your doctor will likely order imaging tests:

X-rays: These are the most common and effective way to diagnose shoulder arthritis. X-rays can show narrowing of the joint space, changes in the bone, and the presence of bone spurs.
CT Scans or MRI: In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be used to get a more detailed view of the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues like the rotator cuff tendons.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Arthritis

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual and can range from conservative, non-surgical methods to advanced surgical procedures.

Non-Surgical Treatments

For many people, non-surgical treatments can effectively manage symptoms, especially in the early stages.

Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate your shoulder pain can help reduce inflammation. This doesn’t mean stopping all activity, but rather modifying how you do things.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to improve your shoulder's flexibility, strength, and range of motion.
Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. For more severe pain, your doctor might prescribe stronger medications.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections directly into the shoulder joint can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. Hyaluronic acid injections, which lubricate the joint, may also be an option for some patients.

Surgical Treatments

When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, surgery may be recommended. An orthopedic surgeon in Debary, FL, can help you decide if surgery is the right choice for you.

Arthroscopy: In the early stages of arthritis, a surgeon can use a minimally invasive technique called arthroscopy to clean out the joint (debridement). This can provide temporary relief but does not cure the arthritis.
Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty): This is the most definitive surgical solution for advanced shoulder arthritis. In this procedure, the damaged parts of the joint are replaced with artificial components.
Total Shoulder Replacement: The damaged humeral head is replaced with a metal ball, and the glenoid socket is replaced with a plastic cup. This is the most common type of shoulder replacement.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure is typically used for patients with rotator cuff tear arthropathy. The normal ball-and-socket structure is reversed—a metal ball is attached to the shoulder blade, and a plastic socket is fitted to the top of the upper arm bone.

Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery involves a period of physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. The results are generally excellent, providing significant pain relief and improved function for years to come.

Your Next Steps Toward Relief

Living with shoulder arthritis can be challenging, but effective treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms and return to the activities you love. From physical therapy and medication to advanced surgical options like shoulder replacement, there is a path forward.

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain and stiffness, don't wait for it to get worse. Seeking a professional diagnosis is the first step toward getting the right care. If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Debary, FL, the team at Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.