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Shoulder Arthritis
Updated over 2 years ago

Shoulder Arthritis

Arthritis - Arthritis is the wearing away of the smooth layer of cartilage that covers the surfaces of the ends of bones.

Types of arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis - this refers to the gradual wear and tear of the smooth layer of cartilage that covers the surfaces of the ends of the bones.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis – refers to an immune response which causes inflammation of the lining of the joint consequently leading to wear of the cartilage surfaces

  • Rotator Cuff Arthropathy - this is when the torn rotator cuff which is not repaired contributes to wear of the joint surfaces

  • Post-traumatic Arthritis – arthritis which has developed, as a result of a fracture within the shoulder joint

  • Osteonecrosis - The loss of blood supply into the humeral head which leads to the bone collapsing and wear of the surfaces

Symptoms of arthritis

  • Pain when inactive

  • Stiffness and restricted range of motion in the joint

  • Swelling of the joint

  • Crackling, grinding, or clicking in the joint

Living with shoulder arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic condition which cannot be cured. Early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms can help preserve the joint and maintain a reasonable quality of life for longer. Some of the ways of managing these symptoms are as follows:

  • Pain control - Speak your doctor for advice on the best pain medication for you who may advise anti-inflammatory medication, creams, and gels if you can tolerate them.

  • Activity modification - try and reduce overhead use of your affected arm

  • Physiotherapy – this will help to maintain and improve strength and range of motion

  • Injection of steroid - This is an injection directly into the joint to help relieve pain and swelling and can make movement of the shoulder easier. These can last several months

  • ICE/Heat Therapy -this will help alleviate pain and swelling

  • Dietary Supplements - Please ensure you discuss this with your doctor as some supplements may interfere with prescribed medications

References

Arthritis Foundation (2022) What is arthritis? Accessed September 2022 https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis.

NHS (2022) Overview: Arthritis. Accessed 28 September 2022 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/arthritis/

Versus Arthritis (2022) Exercising with arthritis. Accessed 30 September 2022

Arthritis Foundation (2021). Shoulder Anatomy. Accessed 28 September 2022.

Miniato, M.A, et al, (2021) Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Shoulder. StatPearls Publishing LLC. Treasure Island

Shoulderdoc (2022) Bones & Joints of the Shoulder. Accessed 18 September 2022 https://www.shoulderdoc.co.uk/article/1177

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