It is a joint disease that occurs as a result of cartilage wear or damage in the shoulder joint. Shoulder arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited movement in the joint. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis develops due to aging and overuse, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Treatment options include medications, physical therapy, and surgical interventions.
What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?
Persistent or movement-triggered pain in the shoulder is the most common symptom. The pain may worsen with shoulder use and decrease during rest. As shoulder arthritis progresses, the cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down. This leads to reduced mobility. Patients may have difficulty performing daily activities such as lifting their arms or reaching behind their backs. Stiffness in the shoulder can occur in the mornings or after long periods of inactivity.
During movement, popping or cracking sounds may be heard in the shoulder joint. If inflammation occurs in the joint, swelling and tenderness may develop around the shoulder. Due to shoulder pain, the surrounding muscles may weaken over time, making it harder to support and move the shoulder. Diagnosis is made through physical examination, the patient’s medical history, and radiological tests (such as X-ray or MRI). Treatment includes pain management, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication depending on the severity of shoulder arthritis and the patient’s overall health.
What Causes Shoulder Arthritis?
As age progresses, cartilage naturally wears down and thins. This condition is more common in middle-aged and older individuals. The most common type, osteoarthritis, results from cartilage wear and can limit the mobility of the shoulder joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by the inflammation of the joint lining caused by the body’s immune system. This condition can lead to pain and swelling in the joints.
Injuries to the joint (such as fractures or dislocations) can lead to the development of shoulder arthritis. After an injury, irregularities and cartilage damage may occur in the joint. Certain diseases, such as gout and psoriatic arthritis, or infections can also cause it. Each of these conditions affects the structural integrity and function of the shoulder joint in different ways. Therefore, proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial.
What Are the Treatment Methods for Shoulder Arthritis?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to control pain and inflammation. Physical therapy includes exercises and manual therapy techniques designed to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain. Physiotherapists create specific exercises to increase the flexibility and strength of the shoulder. It is important to avoid activities that may worsen the pain.
Learning to perform daily tasks without straining the shoulder is essential. Applying ice packs or warm compresses to the shoulder can help reduce pain and swelling. When pain management is insufficient, hyaluronic acid injections can be administered into the shoulder joint. If conservative treatments fail, surgical interventions such as shoulder arthroscopy may be recommended. In severe cases, shoulder replacement surgery (shoulder arthroplasty) may be necessary.
Since each patient’s condition is different, the treatment plan should be tailored individually by the doctor. Early diagnosis and intervention in shoulder arthritis can slow the progression of the disease and also improve quality of life.
