Shoulder Arthritis
What Is Shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the shoulder joint gradually wears away. Cartilage normally acts as a smooth, protective surface that allows the bones of the shoulder to move easily without friction.
When this cartilage breaks down, the bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of motion. Shoulder arthritis can affect either the main shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint) or the AC joint at the top of the shoulder.
At OIBortho, our physicians evaluate and treat shoulder arthritis for patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.
Types of Shoulder Arthritis
There are several types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder:
- Osteoarthritis: the most common type, caused by wear-and-tear over time
- Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation
- Post-traumatic arthritis: develops after a previous shoulder injury or fracture
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy: arthritis that develops after long-standing rotator cuff tears
Each type affects the shoulder differently but often leads to similar symptoms.
Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time.
Common symptoms include:
- Shoulder pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations
- Pain that interferes with sleep
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Difficulty lifting or reaching overhead
- Chronic aching in the joint
As arthritis progresses, movement becomes more limited.
Causes and Risk Factors
Shoulder arthritis develops due to gradual joint damage or inflammation.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Aging and wear-and-tear
- Previous shoulder injuries or fractures
- Repetitive shoulder use over time
- Rotator cuff tears
- Genetic predisposition
- Autoimmune disease (in rheumatoid arthritis)
Over time, cartilage loss leads to bone-on-bone contact in the joint.
How Shoulder Arthritis Is Diagnosed
A physician will perform a physical exam and review symptoms, focusing on range of motion and pain patterns.
Diagnostic tools may include:
- X-rays (to show joint space narrowing and bone changes)
- MRI scans (to evaluate soft tissues and cartilage)
- CT scans in select cases
Imaging helps confirm the severity of arthritis and guide treatment options.
Understanding Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis is a progressive condition. As cartilage continues to wear down, pain and stiffness typically increase. While it cannot be reversed, symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment.
Early diagnosis helps slow progression and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on severity and daily limitations.
Common options include:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Cortisone injections
- Hyaluronic acid injections in select cases
- Arthroscopic procedures for mild cases
- Shoulder replacement surgery (for advanced arthritis)
Many patients improve significantly with non-surgical care.
Why Choose OIBortho?
OIBortho provides expert evaluation and treatment for shoulder arthritis using a personalized approach focused on pain relief, improved motion, and long-term joint health. Our physicians help patients maintain an active lifestyle whenever possible.
We serve patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties with comprehensive orthopaedic care close to home.
Call 732-800-9000 to speak with one of our scheduling specialists or click here to schedule online 24/7!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shoulder arthritis?
It is the wearing down of cartilage in the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness.
What causes it?
It is most often caused by aging, wear and tear, or previous shoulder injuries.
What does it feel like?
It usually causes deep shoulder pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
Can shoulder arthritis be cured?
No, but symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment.
When is surgery needed?
Surgery may be considered when pain and stiffness significantly affect daily life.
Does physical therapy help?
Yes, it can improve motion, strength, and reduce pain in many patients.