What are the symptoms of shoulder arthritis?
Symptoms include deep joint pain, grinding (crepitus), and progressive loss of range of motion, making it hard to reach overhead.
Condition/Condition Details
Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative condition that involves the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
Experiencing Shoulder Arthritis Pain?
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About Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that covers the bones of the shoulder joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and grinding. This degeneration can result from wear-and-tear, a past injury, or an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our diagnosis includes a physical exam and advanced imaging to show joint space narrowing and bone spurs, which helps shape a personalized treatment strategy to restore motion and relieve pain.
What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?
Symptoms include a deep, aching pain in the shoulder that worsens with activity and at night. Patients also experience stiffness, an audible grinding or clicking with movement, and a decreased ability to lift the arm or rotate the shoulder.
Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative condition that involves the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
Are There Specific Risk Factors for Shoulder Arthritis?
Key risk factors include aging, a history of previous shoulder injuries or dislocations, chronic overuse (common in overhead athletes), and inflammatory autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. A chronic, untreated rotator cuff tear can also lead to a specific type of arthritis.
Diagnosing Shoulder Arthritis?
Our specialists use detailed imaging, including a complimentary MRI or ultrasound review when needed, to assess joint cartilage, the condition of the rotator cuff, and any inflammation. Combined with a thorough clinical evaluation, this ensures the most accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Treatment for Shoulder Arthritis?
Initial management includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy referrals to preserve motion, and corticosteroid or biologic injections. When symptoms persist or joint damage is advanced, our surgeons offer advanced surgical options, including minimally invasive arthroscopy, partial joint resurfacing, or shoulder replacement. A reverse shoulder replacement may be used if a large rotator cuff tear is also present.
Does Shoulder Arthritis Cause Pain?
Pain from shoulder arthritis often flares with repetitive activity or lifting and can become constant over time. Our comprehensive approach targets both the inflammation and the underlying joint mechanics to relieve pain and restore comfortable, functional motion.
What Can Patients Do to Prevent It?
While some causes of shoulder arthritis cannot be prevented, these strategies can help delay progression:
- Avoid repetitive overhead strain to reduce wear on the joint
- Maintain shoulder strength and flexibility through a balanced exercise program
- Treat minor shoulder injuries promptly to prevent long-term damage
- Address rotator cuff tears early to prevent rotator cuff arthropathy
- Maintain healthy weight to reduce stress on joints
- Use proper lifting techniques and body mechanics
Schedule a Consultation Today
If shoulder pain or stiffness is interfering with your routine, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Enjoy a complimentary MRI review and a second opinion to take the first step toward lasting relief from shoulder arthritis.
Locations Offering Evaluation
Our board-certified specialists offer shoulder arthritis evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anatomic vs. Reverse Shoulder Replacement?
Anatomic mimics nature (ball on arm). Reverse replacement switches them (ball on socket) and is used when the rotator cuff is torn, relying on the deltoid muscle.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Modern implants typically last 15 to 20 years. Longevity depends on patient activity level and implant technology.
Can shoulder arthritis be treated without surgery?
Early stages are managed with NSAIDs, targeted exercises, and steroid injections. Avoid heavy lifting to slow progression.
Is shoulder replacement painful?
Post-op pain is managed with nerve blocks. Long-term, it is very effective at eliminating arthritis pain, often more so than knee replacement.
