Shoulder arthritis is common as people age. The cause of shoulder arthritis includes traumatic injury/dislocation, systemic diseases (Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriasis, Gout, etc.), infections, and osteoarthritis. Another common cause is an irreparable rotator cuff.  This leads to a particular form of disease called rotator cuff arthropathy. Pain is usually described as a deep ache within the socket of the shoulder with radiation into the lateral arm. People typically notice decreased motion with time. Patients notice popping or grinding with a range of motion that can be painful. Radiographs are generally used to evaluate the joint surface to confirm arthritis.

Further imaging with CT scan and MRI is used to evaluate the condition of the rotator cuff and bone defects for preoperative planning. Conservative measures for treatment include home stretching programs, physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, and injections. If conservative measures fail and pain limits the quality of life, then surgical interventions include total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement.

If you have a diagnosis of shoulder arthritis or shoulder pain please come and see us for an initial evaluation or seek the help of a medical professional for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Do you think this pain could be something else?  Make sure you check out the article on Rotator Cuffs, you may be surprised.