What is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints of the shoulder. Generally, there are three types of shoulder arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Symptoms include pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the joint area. Treatments can involve anti-inflammatory medication, dietary supplements, and in severe cases, surgery.

The most common type of shoulder arthritis is osteoarthritis; it is usually caused by overuse, or wear and tear, of the shoulder joints. This condition is degenerative in nature and may damage the cartilage. Osteoarthritis is more common in older individuals and can either cause occasional dull pain, chronic discomfort, or severe intense pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic, or body-wide condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects more than one joint and is usually bilateral. This type of shoulder arthritis is not specific to older individuals, as it can affect children.

Post-traumatic shoulder arthritis is a type of arthritis that typically occurs after an injury was sustained. Frequently, this type of arthritis is seen after dislocation or fracture of the shoulder. This type of arthritis also can occur after a tear in the rotator cuff during exercise or other form of strenuous physical activity.

Normally, symptoms of shoulder arthritis include pain, which may be exacerbated by physical activity and even changes in the weather or barometric pressure. Decreased range of motion and stiffness are often seen in shoulder arthritis, as is snapping or clicking sounds upon movement. Sometimes, pain is more pronounced at night, which may cause sleeping to be a challenge.

Generally, diagnosis is made during a physical examination. The physician may discover decreased range of motion, pain upon palpation, and tenderness of the shoulder. Crepitation, which is a grating sound or sensation within the joint, is often detected when arthritis is present. Diagnostic x-rays may reveal bone changes and irregularities, and bone spurs may be present.

Typically, treatments of shoulder arthritis include anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and rest. Sometimes, the physician may recommend an injection of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Usually, arthritis promotes the inflammatory process. When corticosteroids decrease inflammation, pain is usually significantly reduced. Sometimes the doctor may recommend dietary supplements, such as chondroitin and glucosamine, which may help relieve symptoms of joint pain.

Occasionally, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery is often reserved for more advanced cases, or for those who do not respond to other, non-invasive treatments. Surgical intervention for arthritis of the shoulder is typically effective in relieving pain and improving range of motion. Surgical procedures may include arthroplasty, where the shoulder joint is replaced with an artificial or prosthetic joint. An orthopedic surgeon, a doctor specializing in bone and joint conditions, usually performs the surgery.