Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down, causing pain and stiffness. It can be caused by several factors, including age, overuse, and injury. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for shoulder arthritis.

Causes of Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Age: As people age, the cartilage in their joints can wear down, leading to arthritis.
2. Overuse: Overuse of the shoulder joint, such as from sports or manual labor, can cause arthritis.
3. Injury: An injury to the shoulder, such as a dislocated shoulder or rotator cuff tear, can lead to arthritis.
4. Certain medical conditions: People with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis are at increased risk of developing shoulder arthritis.

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

The main symptom of shoulder arthritis is pain in the shoulder joint. The pain may be worse with movement or activity and may be accompanied by stiffness or a grinding sensation in the joint. Other common symptoms of shoulder arthritis include:

1. Limited range of motion in the shoulder.
2. Weakness in the shoulder.
3. Swelling or tenderness in the shoulder joint.

Diagnosis of Shoulder Arthritis

To diagnose shoulder arthritis, your doctor will typically perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI. During the physical exam, your doctor will check for pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.

Treatment of Shoulder Arthritis

The treatment of shoulder arthritis typically involves managing the symptoms and preserving the function of the joint. Treatment options may include:

1. Pain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness in the shoulder.
3. Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder.
4. Surgery: For severe cases of shoulder arthritis, surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged joint with an artificial joint.

Prevention of Shoulder Arthritis

To reduce the risk of developing shoulder arthritis, it is important to:

1. Exercise regularly to maintain flexibility in the shoulder joint.
2. Avoid activities that require repetitive overhead motions.
3. Seek medical treatment for shoulder injuries or pain.
4. Manage underlying medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. If you are experiencing symptoms of shoulder arthritis, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment options.