Shoulder osteoarthritis is a painful condition in which cartilages present at bone ends start to wear down. In other words, we can say that it is a degenerative condition of the joint where joint tissues and cartilages break down gradually. This condition increases the friction in the joints resulting in increased pain. In the case of shoulder osteoarthritis, the range of motion of the affected shoulder becomes limited.
Our shoulder has two joints, the acromioclavicular joint, and the glenohumeral joint. Osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint is more common than the glenohumeral joint. In a maximum number of cases, shoulder OA can be treated without any surgery but in severe conditions, surgery may be required and that may also require the use of Orthopaedic Implants and Surgical Instruments.
What Are the Causes of Shoulder Osteoarthritis?
Shoulder OA can be classified into two types:
Primary Osteoarthritis
There is no specific cause for primary OA, but this condition is most commonly seen in people above 50 years of age. Elderly people are prone to bone deterioration and degeneration of cartilage & soft tissues as well, hence, the chances of developing osteoarthritis in the shoulder become high. The percentage of developing this condition is higher in women than men.
Secondary Osteoarthritis
The cause of secondary osteoarthritis can be identified as this occurs due to certain reasons including injury in the past, shoulder dislocation history, rotator cuff tears, or infections. Young people are more likely to develop secondary shoulder osteoarthritis.
What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder OA?
Pain is the most common symptom that is experienced by people with shoulder OA. The pain becomes worse over time and it also increases with the activity. If the glenohumeral shoulder joint is affected, the pain will be experienced at the shoulder’s back while, if the AC joint is affected the pain will be felt at the top of the shoulder. Other symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis may include swelling, limited range of motion of the affected shoulder, and clicking sound or grinding feeling during the movement of the shoulder.
How Shoulder Osteoarthritis is Diagnosed?
Assessment of the medical history along with physical examination is what the diagnosis of shoulder OA will start with. This examination will help the doctor identify the muscle strength, range of motion of the affected joint, swelling, and tenderness to touch. After getting all this information, the doctor will indicate an X-ray examination to see the condition of the shoulder. If the X-ray shows unclear pictures, an MRI scan may also be indicated.
To confirm the chances of rheumatoid arthritis, the doctor may also suggest a blood test.
What is the Treatment for Shoulder Osteoarthritis?
The treatment of shoulder OA is aimed at reducing pain in the affected shoulder and relieving other symptoms like swelling and tenderness. Taking proper rest is the best way to heal shoulder osteoarthritis. Along with that, the doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to provide relief from swelling and reduce pain. Proper physical therapy may help strengthen muscles and improve the range of motion.
When other methods of treatment fail to provide desired results, surgery may be required to relieve pain.
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