Understanding Shoulder Arthritis Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Shoulder arthritis can make even the simplest movements a painful challenge. From reaching for a glass on a top shelf to simply putting on a coat, these once-effortless tasks can become burdens. If you're experiencing shoulder pain that limits your daily activities, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for shoulder arthritis is essential.

This blog dives deep into shoulder arthritis, explaining what it is, the different types that can affect your joint, and how to manage or treat it. If you're based in Orange City, FL, seeking expert care from an orthopedic surgeon can make all the difference.

 

What Is Shoulder Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that inflames and damages the joints. When it affects the shoulder, it usually means damage to the cartilage, the material that cushions the ends of the bones in your shoulder joint. Without healthy cartilage, bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

The shoulder joint is complex, consisting of two main joints:

1. The glenohumeral joint, where the humerus (upper arm bone) and the glenoid (part of the shoulder blade) meet.
2. The acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets part of the shoulder blade.

Arthritis can impact one or both of these joints, making shoulder movement painful and restrictive.

 

Types of Shoulder Arthritis

There isn’t just one form of shoulder arthritis. Here are the main types that orthopedic surgeons commonly diagnose and treat:

1. Osteoarthritis

Known as "wear-and-tear arthritis," osteoarthritis is the most common form. It typically affects older individuals as the cartilage in the shoulder joints gradually breaks down over time.

Symptoms include stiffness, cracking sounds during movement, and increasing pain during activity.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to severe inflammation and damage in the shoulder.

Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis often affects both shoulders symmetrically and is marked by fatigue and morning stiffness.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Shoulder injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can damage cartilage and accelerate arthritis development, resulting in post-traumatic arthritis.

If you’ve had a past shoulder injury and struggle with ongoing pain or stiffness, this may be the cause.

4. Rotator Cuff Tear Arthritis

When a long-term rotator cuff tear affects the shoulder, it can lead to a type of arthritis called cuff tear arthropathy. This type can significantly limit motion and lead to muscle weakness.

5. Arthritis from Infection

Arthritis can also stem from joint infections, a condition known as septic arthritis. This type is less common but requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent joint damage.

 

Causes of Shoulder Arthritis

Several factors contribute to the development of shoulder arthritis, including:

• Age: The likelihood of shoulder arthritis increases with age.
• Trauma: Injuries like fractures, sprains, or dislocations can trigger arthritis.
• Repetitive Stress: Occupations or sports requiring repetitive shoulder movement may increase arthritis risk.
• Family History: Genetic predisposition can also play a role.

• Underlying Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis increase susceptibility.

   

Symptoms to Watch For

Shoulder arthritis symptoms can vary in intensity, but here are the most common red flags to note:

• Pain during shoulder movement, especially reaching or lifting.
• Stiffness that reduces the range of motion.
• Swelling or tenderness in the shoulder joint area.
• Grinding or popping sounds due to bone friction.
• Weakness in the shoulder.

If these symptoms align with your experience, seeking professional advice from an orthopedic surgeon is highly recommended.
 

Diagnosis How Professionals Identify Shoulder Arthritis

When you visit an orthopedic surgeon in Orange City, FL, for shoulder pain, diagnosing arthritis will typically involve several steps:

1. Medical History Review

Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any history of injury or illness.

2. Physical Examination

The doctor will assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and signs of tenderness or swelling.

3. Imaging Tests

X-rays can identify joint damage, narrowing, or bone spurs. For more detailed imaging, an MRI may be conducted.

4. Lab Tests

If rheumatoid arthritis or septic arthritis is suspected, blood tests or joint fluid analysis may be necessary.

 

Treatment Options for Shoulder Arthritis

While shoulder arthritis can’t be completely reversed, there are various treatment strategies to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. Options range from conservative measures to surgical interventions, depending on the severity of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Most patients start with non-surgical methods, such as:

• Physical Therapy

Guided exercises strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve flexibility. Physical therapists often focus on regaining shoulder movement without exacerbating pain.

• Medications

Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections relieve swelling and pain.

• Activity Modification

Reducing strenuous shoulder movements or repetitive activities can help slow arthritis progression.

• Hot or Cold Therapy

Applying ice can reduce swelling, while heat packs help relax stiff joints.

Surgical Options

If non-surgical treatments fail to bring relief, surgical options like those below may be recommended:

• Arthroscopic Surgery

Minimally invasive and typically used to clean out loose fragments.

• Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty)

Replacing damaged parts of the shoulder joint with implants can provide long-term relief in severe cases.

• Resection Arthroplasty for AC Joint Arthritis

Removal of the damaged portion of the collarbone can improve AC joint arthritis outcomes.
 

Practical Tips to Prevent Shoulder Arthritis

Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to potentially reduce the risk of developing shoulder arthritis or delaying its severity:

• Stay Active Regular exercise strengthens the muscles supporting your shoulder joint.
• Use Proper Technique Ensure you use the correct posture when lifting heavy objects or exercising.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight Excess weight can strain the joints.
• Seek Early Treatment If you experience any shoulder pain or stiffness, don’t delay seeing a professional.
   

Find Expert Care in Orange City FL

If you're experiencing shoulder pain, whether mild or severe, seeking a diagnosis and treatment plan is key to preventing further joint damage. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can evaluate your condition and tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.

At Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute in Orange City, FL, our specialists help patients regain mobility and find relief from painful shoulder arthritis. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward restoring shoulder health.