Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The shoulder is a complex joint with two main components that can be affected by arthritis:
1. Glenohumeral Joint Arthritis: This involves the ball-and-socket joint where the upper arm bone (humerus) meets the shoulder blade (scapula). It’s the more commonly affected joint in shoulder arthritis.
2. Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Arthritis: This involves the joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder blade (acromion). This type of arthritis can also cause significant pain and discomfort.

Types of Shoulder Arthritis
Osteoarthritis

The most common form of shoulder arthritis, particularly in older adults. It occurs due to wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joint, leading to bone-on-bone contact.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune disorder that can affect any joint, including the shoulder. It causes inflammation of the synovial membrane, which can lead to cartilage damage and joint deformity.

Post-traumatic Arthritis

Develops after an injury to the shoulder, such as a fracture or dislocation, which damages the cartilage and accelerates the onset of arthritis.

Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy

This occurs when a large, long-standing rotator cuff tear leads to arthritis. Without the support of the rotator cuff, the shoulder joint can become damaged over time.

Avascular Necrosis

This condition results from a lack of blood flow to the shoulder joint, leading to the death of bone tissue and eventual arthritis.

Symptoms

– Pain: Typically felt deep within the shoulder and may worsen with movement.
– Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to perform overhead activities.

– Swelling: May occur in some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
– Grinding or Catching Sensation: Caused by rough surfaces of the joint rubbing against each other.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests like X-rays, and sometimes MRI or CT scans.

Blood tests may be used if rheumatoid arthritis is suspected.

Treatment

Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the arthritis but may include:
1. Conservative Treatments:
– Medications: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), corticosteroids, or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis.
– Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder.
– Hot/Cold Therapy: To reduce pain and swelling.

2. Injections:
– Corticosteroid Injections: To reduce inflammation and pain.
– Hyaluronic Acid Injections: To lubricate the joint (less commonly used in the shoulder than in the knee).
3. Surgical Options:
– Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to clean out the joint.
– Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Partial or total replacement of the shoulder joint for severe cases.
– Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Often used in cases of rotator cuff tear arthropathy.

Lifestyle Modifications

– Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
– Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
– Assistive Devices: Use of slings or other supports to relieve pain.

Early intervention and proper management can help slow the progression of shoulder arthritis and maintain a better quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan.

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