Shoulder Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Treatment
The shoulder contains two joints, and both can be affected by arthritis. Inflammation in the shoulder joints, or arthritis, can cause chronic pain and limit range of motion. It can result in a reduced quality of life, as it becomes more difficult to perform daily tasks and activities. While there is not a cure for any type of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, there are treatments for this type of shoulder pain. Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine offers shoulder arthritis and osteoarthritis treatment for relief at our medical facility in NYC’s Upper East Side.
Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, resulting from wear, tear and injuries to joints. The shoulder is susceptible to osteoarthritis, especially in those who sustained rotator cuff injuries, shoulder dislocations or other damage to the shoulder joints. Wear and tear from repetitive shoulder use in sports like baseball, tennis or swimming can lead to a higher risk for osteoarthritis. Symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis include:
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- Pain on the top of the shoulder [acromioclavicular (AC) joint arthritis]
- Pain at the back of the shoulder (glenohumeral joint)
- Difficulty raising the arm or reaching
- Grinding or clicking in the shoulder joint
- Reduced range of motion
It is more common to have arthritis in the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the clavicle and shoulder blade bones meet than the glenohumeral joint, but both can be affected. Most people with osteoarthritis will experience it in only one shoulder, usually the most used (throwing) or previously injured.
Our orthopedic specialists offer treatments to control or slow down the progression of shoulder arthritis, reducing pain and improving function. For severe osteoarthritis, we can perform cutting-edge surgeries to improve function and relieve chronic pain. Contact Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine at our medical clinic in UES New York City to schedule a consultation if you have shoulder arthritis and need relief.
