Shoulder arthritis is a condition characterized by the degeneration of the cartilage in the shoulder joint and can occur due to several factors, the most common being aging, injury, or autoimmune diseases. The shoulder consists of a ball-and-socket joint that relies on its smooth cartilage to facilitate a wide range of motion. If cartilage begins to deteriorate, the bones of the joint may rub directly against each other causing discomfort and limiting mobility. The most common form of shoulder arthritis typically comes with the natural process of aging (osteoarthritis); on the other hand, the other is an autoimmune condition that can affect the shoulder joint in any age group (rheumatoid arthritis). Symptoms often include joint stiffness, a decrease in range of motion, swelling, and making routine tasks challenging.

Shoulder arthritis manifests as a spectrum of symptoms that can significantly impair one’s ability to engage in daily activities, work, and leisure pursuits. Generally, individuals either experience a deep, constant joint pain or an abrupt, sharp pain upon moving the shoulder (ex: lifting objects, reaching overhead, etc.) and this can worsen with weather changes or after long periods of inactivity. Stiffness is an immanent symptom typically resulting in a decreased range of motion of the shoulder joint making movement increasingly difficult. In some cases, swelling and tenderness surrounding the joint can produce a grinding sensation or an audible clicking sound during movements, indicating the bones are colliding. Collectively, these symptoms can negatively impact everyday life, making day to day tasks unnecessarily painful and cumbersome.

Shoulder arthritis can affect people of all ages but is predominantly observed in older adults as a common degenerative condition associated with aging. However, younger folk are still susceptible, especially those with a history of shoulder injuries or that engage in activities that place excessive stress on these joints (heavy lifting, high-impact sports, etc.). Additionally, those with autoimmune diseases are at an increased risk for developing inflammatory types of arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis), which can develop at any age. There are other factors that could play a part with the development of shoulder arthritis; these include but are not limited to genetic predisposition, obesity, use of tobacco products, and more.

The signs and symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary significantly from person to person. Persistent joint pain, reduced range of motion, stiffness, swelling, and tenderness are all common symptoms typically present with shoulder arthritis. In some cases, audible clicking or grinding noises during shoulder movements can occur, signifying the bones are in direct contact due to cartilage deterioration. Collectively, these symptoms can become disruptive to daily activities, making simple tasks challenging and diminishing an individual’s ability to fully engage in work or leisure activities.

Shoulder arthritis arises from a variety of causes, the primary mechanism being the deterioration of the cartilage within the shoulder joint. This cartilage is essential for smooth movement and cushioning between the bones, and its degradation leads to inflammation, pain, and mobility reduction. Age plays a factor as the risk of cartilage breakdown increases over time, making older adults particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis. Trauma to the shoulder (fractures or dislocations) or repetitive overuse of the joint can also accelerate cartilage damage, potentially leading to post-traumatic arthritis. Autoimmune conditions (rheumatoid arthritis) attack and target the body’s tissues, including the joint cartilage, causing inflammatory arthritis at any age.

Finding a shoulder arthritis specialist who has a deep understanding of this condition can offer targeted treatments that is crucial for maintenance and repair. Many healthcare facilities and orthopedic clinics have professionals dedicated to diagnosing and treating various forms of arthritis, including those specializing in shoulder arthritis. To find a specialist near you, consider consulting with your primary care provider for a referral or utilize the online directories of reputable orthopedic organizations. For personalized attention and a comprehensive approach to managing your shoulder arthritis, our clinic is here to help. To explore treatment options and take the first step toward improving your quality of life, call us or book an appointment online today. We serve patients from Sterling Heights MI, Dearborn MI, Detroit MI, Birmingham MI, Allen Park MI, Warren MI, and BEYOND!