Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage covering the bones of the shoulder joint wears down over time. Without this smooth, protective surface, the bones rub against each other, resulting in pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. Shoulder arthritis is a leading cause of chronic shoulder pain in adults, especially as we age or after previous shoulder injuries. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce pain and preserve joint function.

What Causes Shoulder Arthritis?

The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint that allows a wide range of motion. Arthritis develops when the cartilage in this joint becomes damaged or thins out. Over time, this can lead to inflammation, bone spurs, and joint degeneration.

The most common causes of shoulder arthritis include:

• Osteoarthritis: Age-related wear and tear on the shoulder joint
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Following a fracture, dislocation, or severe injury
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that attacks joint tissue
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy: Arthritis that develops after a long-standing rotator cuff tear
• Avascular necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the bone, leading to joint collapse

People over 50, athletes, and those with a history of shoulder injuries or heavy labor are at higher risk.

What Are the Symptoms?

Common symptoms of shoulder arthritis include:

• A deep, aching pain in the shoulder joint
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Grinding, clicking, or catching sensations with movement
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Pain that worsens with activity or at night

Symptoms may progress gradually and can interfere with daily tasks like reaching overhead or lifting heavy objects.

When Should I See a Specialist About Shoulder Arthritis?

You should contact an orthopedic surgeon or shoulder specialist if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain that lasts for more than a few weeks
• Stiffness that limits your ability to reach or lift
• Pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
• Weakness or loss of motion that doesn’t improve with rest
• A history of shoulder injury or previous rotator cuff surgery

Early evaluation helps slow progression and prevent further joint damage.

How Is Shoulder Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose shoulder arthritis, an orthopedic specialist will:

• Review your medical history and symptoms
• Perform a physical exam to assess motion, strength, and tenderness
• Order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans

Accurate diagnosis is key to determining whether the arthritis is mild, moderate, or advanced—and which treatment options will be most effective.

How Is Shoulder Arthritis Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of arthritis and your activity goals.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Many patients experience relief with nonoperative treatment and never require surgery. These treatments include:

• Activity modification and rest to avoid movements that worsen pain
• Anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
• Physical therapy to improve shoulder strength and flexibility
• Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce inflammation and improve motion
• Heat and ice therapy to relieve stiffness and soreness

These measures can help manage symptoms for months or even years in mild to moderate cases.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery may be recommended when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief. Options include:

• Arthroscopic debridement: Removing loose cartilage, bone spurs, or inflamed tissue to reduce pain and improve motion
• Shoulder resurfacing (partial replacement): Replacing only the damaged humerus “ball”
• Total shoulder replacement (arthroplasty): Replacing both the ball and socket with artificial components
• Reverse total shoulder replacement: Used when arthritis is combined with a rotator cuff tear or severe bone loss (on the glenoid “socket” side)

These advanced procedures can restore motion, relieve pain, and improve function.

What Are the Risks of Shoulder Arthritis Surgery?

While shoulder replacement surgery is highly successful, potential risks include:

• Persistent pain or stiffness
• Infection
• Nerve injury (rare)
• Loosening or wear of the implant over time
• Need for revision surgery

Choosing an experienced shoulder surgeon and following your rehabilitation plan significantly reduces these risks.

What Does Recovery Involve?

Recovery after shoulder replacement or arthroscopic surgery typically includes:

• Immobilization in a sling for the first few weeks
• Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
• Gradual return to daily activities under your surgeon’s guidance
• Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity until cleared

Full recovery may take several months, but most patients experience lasting pain relief and significant improvement in shoulder function.

What Is the Outlook for Shoulder Arthritis?

Following surgery, most patients regain mobility and return to normal activities. Advances in surgical techniques and rehabilitation have made shoulder replacement one of the most effective treatments for advanced arthritis, with excellent long-term results.