Shoulder Arthritis

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, allowing the arm to move in multiple directions. Smooth cartilage covers the ends of the bones within the joint, helping them glide against one another without friction.

When this cartilage begins to break down, the bones can rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced range of motion. Over time, shoulder arthritis can interfere with work, exercise, recreation, and everyday activities. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized treatment plans designed to relieve discomfort, restore mobility, and help patients return to the activities they enjoy.

What Is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that causes degeneration of the cartilage within the shoulder joint. As the protective cartilage wears away, the space between the bones narrows, resulting in increased friction and joint inflammation.

The shoulder actually contains two joints that can be affected by arthritis:

• The glenohumeral joint, where the upper arm bone meets the shoulder socket
• The acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade

As arthritis progresses, patients may develop pain, stiffness, bone spurs, and limitations in shoulder movement.

What Types of Shoulder Arthritis Are There?

Several types of arthritis can affect the shoulder joint.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of shoulder arthritis. It develops gradually over time as normal wear and tear causes cartilage to deteriorate.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy joint tissue. This can lead to joint inflammation, pain, cartilage damage, and loss of function.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis develops after a previous shoulder injury, such as a fracture, dislocation, or significant ligament injury. Joint damage from the injury can accelerate cartilage wear over time.

Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy

This form of shoulder arthritis develops when a large, chronic rotator cuff tear causes abnormal joint mechanics, eventually leading to arthritis and joint damage.

What Causes Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis can develop for several reasons, often involving a combination of factors.

Common causes and risk factors include:

• Natural aging and cartilage degeneration
• Previous shoulder injuries
• Shoulder fractures
• Shoulder dislocations
• Repetitive overhead activities
• Chronic rotator cuff tears
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Other inflammatory conditions
• Family history of arthritis
• Occupational overuse

Many patients experience gradual symptom development over several years.

What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?

Symptoms often develop slowly and tend to worsen over time.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain during activity
• Deep aching pain in the shoulder joint
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion
• Pain when reaching overhead
• Difficulty lifting objects
• Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Nighttime shoulder pain
• Weakness around the shoulder

As arthritis advances, patients may experience discomfort even during periods of rest.

How Is Shoulder Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing shoulder arthritis begins with a comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Assessment of shoulder strength
• Range-of-motion testing
• Evaluation of shoulder stability
• X-rays to identify cartilage loss and bone spurs
• MRI imaging to evaluate soft tissue structures
• CT scans when detailed bone imaging is needed
• Laboratory testing if inflammatory arthritis is suspected

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the type and severity of arthritis and guides treatment recommendations.

How Is Shoulder Arthritis Treated?

Treatment focuses on reducing pain, maintaining mobility, and improving overall shoulder function.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for Shoulder Arthritis?

Many patients can successfully manage symptoms without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Home exercise programs
• Corticosteroid injections
• Heat and cold therapy
• Lifestyle modifications
• Joint mobility exercises

Physical therapy can be particularly beneficial for maintaining flexibility and strengthening the muscles that support the shoulder.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Shoulder Arthritis?

Surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate symptom relief.

Surgical options may include:

• Arthroscopic debridement
• Bone spur removal
• Shoulder resurfacing procedures
• Partial shoulder replacement
• Total shoulder replacement
• Reverse shoulder replacement

The most appropriate procedure depends on the severity of arthritis, rotator cuff function, patient goals, and overall health.

What Does Shoulder Arthritis Recovery Look Like?

Recovery depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach selected.

Patients pursuing nonsurgical treatment often experience improvement with medication, physical therapy, injections, and activity modifications.

Following surgery, recovery may include:

• Temporary activity restrictions
• Sling use
• Physical therapy
• Range-of-motion exercises
• Progressive strengthening programs
• Gradual return to work and recreational activities

Many patients experience substantial improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life through a structured rehabilitation program.

What Complications Can Occur if Shoulder Arthritis Is Left Untreated?

Without treatment, shoulder arthritis may continue to progress and significantly impact daily activities.

Potential complications include:

• Chronic shoulder pain
• Progressive loss of motion
• Joint stiffness
• Bone spur formation
• Weakness
• Difficulty performing daily tasks
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced quality of life

Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve shoulder function and minimize long-term complications.

Get Expert Shoulder Arthritis Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

Shoulder arthritis can make it difficult to work, stay active, and enjoy everyday life. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for shoulder arthritis, including advanced diagnostics, physical therapy recommendations, injection therapies, and shoulder replacement procedures when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves rehabilitation, medication management, injections, joint-preservation techniques, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of shoulder arthritis, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward lasting relief.