Shoulder Arthritis

A Degenerative Shoulder Joint Condition Leading to Pain, Stiffness, and Reduced Mobility

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement in your shoulder. Your shoulder is a complex joint that allows you to move your arm in many directions. It is composed of two primary joints—the glenohumeral joint (where the ball of the arm bone meets the shoulder socket) and the acromioclavicular joint (where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade). Arthritis can affect one or both of these joints, significantly impacting daily life.

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder, but the most common forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help patients manage the condition effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

TYPES OF SHOULDER ARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis: This is the “wear-and-tear” arthritis that happens as you get older. The cartilage in your shoulder joint gradually wears down, causing pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: RA is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks your joints, including the shoulder. This can lead to inflammation and joint damage.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: If you’ve had a previous shoulder injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, it can cause arthritis to develop later on due to joint degeneration.
Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy: This form of arthritis occurs after a long-standing rotator cuff tear, which can affect the joint’s stability and lead to cartilage damage.

SYMPTOMS OF SHOULDER ARTHRITIS

If you have shoulder arthritis, you might notice:

Pain: A gradual onset of pain in your shoulder joint, which may worsen with activity.
Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to perform daily tasks such as reaching overhead or behind.
Swelling and tenderness: Your shoulder may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch.
Grinding or clicking sensation: As the cartilage wears down, the bones may rub against each other, causing a grinding or clicking noise during movement.
Weakness: Muscle weakness around the shoulder joint may occur, making it difficult to lift objects or carry out everyday tasks.

DIAGNOSIS OF SHOULDER ARTHRITIS

To accurately diagnose shoulder arthritis, a combination of a physical examination, patient history, and imaging tests will be used. Diagnostic approaches often include:

Physical Examination: Dr Liddell will assess your range of motion, strength, and areas of tenderness in the shoulder.
X-rays: X-rays can help show the extent of cartilage loss and any bone changes in your joint.
MRI or CT Scans: These may be used to provide more detailed images of your joint, particularly with soft tissue involvement or for complex injuries.
Blood Tests: If rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, blood tests may be performed to check for markers of inflammation and autoimmunity.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR SHOULDER ARTHRITIS

Treatment for shoulder arthritis depends on the type and severity of the condition.

In many cases, non-surgical options are recommended as the first step in managing symptoms:

Medication: Pain relievers such as paracetamol or anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can guide you through targeted exercises to improve shoulder strength and flexibility.
Activity Modification: Avoiding movements that place strain on the shoulder, such as heavy lifting or repetitive overhead tasks, may help. Low-impact activities like swimming or walking are often encouraged.
Corticosteroid Injections: These may offer temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can relax muscles, while cold packs can help reduce swelling and numb pain.

If non-surgical measures do not provide sufficient relief, surgical treatment may be considered:

Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that allows Dr Liddell to assess and treat joint damage using a small camera and specialised instruments. This technique is often used for shoulder impingement, early-stage arthritis, and labral tears, with benefits including smaller incisions, faster recovery, and reduced post-operative discomfort.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery: For more advanced arthritis or joint damage, replacing the damaged part or entire joint with an artificial implant may be necessary. Options include total shoulder replacement, reverse shoulder replacement, or hemiarthroplasty. Dr Liddell will recommend the most suitable approach based on your condition, activity level, and overall health.

Every patient is different and Dr Liddell will work with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle, helping you make informed decisions about your care.