Osteoarthritis also referred to as ‘degenerative joint disease’ is the common type of shoulder arthritis. Other less common types include rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis that follow shoulder trauma.
Osteoarthritis is characterized by progressive wearing away of the joint cartilage. Therefore bare bone is exposed within the shoulder. Rheumatoid arthritis is the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the joints. It can occur over time, destroying the bone and the cartilage.
Shoulder arthritis develops in individuals over 50 years of age. It is common is those with a history of prior shoulder injuries, infections, fractures, and dislocations. It could be hereditary too.
Symptoms of shoulder arthritis
- Pain while performing activities that reach overhead
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- Limited movements
- Joint inflammation
- Soreness around the joints
- The grinding feeling within the joint
Treatment
The primary treatment includes:
- Physical rest
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen
- Modifications in activities
- Physiotherapy
- Cold and hot compress
- Steroid injections
If non-surgical measures do not work, surgical intervention is necessary. It may include the removal of the end of the clavicle and joint replacement surgery.