Shoulder Arthritis

What is shoulder arthritis?

There are three main joints associated with the shoulder that are formed by connecting bones. Where the ends of these bones meet is surrounded by a layer of shiny and smooth cartilage known as articular cartilage. This connective tissue protects these bony ends and allows for painless joint movement when the bones glide over one another. However, the articular cartilage deteriorates over time from the natural aging process or from previous trauma resulting in bone-on-bone contact known as shoulder arthritis. If left untreated, shoulder arthritis can cause chronic pain, and loss of movement. Dr. Joseph D. Lamplot, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving patients in Arlington Heights, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, IL, has the knowledge and understanding, as well as substantial experience, in treating patients with shoulder arthritis.

Are there different types of shoulder arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis is known to affect two of the three shoulder joints: the acromioclavicular joint and the glenohumeral joint. These two shoulder joints can develop one of the four major types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, occurs when the articular cartilage naturally erodes from a combination of chronic shoulder use and genetics. Rotator cuff tear arthritis, also known as rotator cuff arthropathy, develops from a rotator cuff tendon tear that leads to eventual wear of the shoulder cartilage. Post-traumatic arthritis is the result of a severe traumatic event or repeated shoulder dislocations. Lastly, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that damages the cartilage when the body’s own immune system attacks and destroys this tissue.

What are the symptoms of shoulder arthritis?

Varying degrees of shoulder pain are the most common complaints from individuals with suspected shoulder arthritis. This pain can fluctuate between a dull ache and episodes of intensely sharp pain. Some other common symptoms of shoulder arthritis can include:

A “grinding” or “catching” sensation when moving the affected shoulder
The affected shoulder has a decreased range of motion that worsens over time
Shoulder weakness and stiffness
Difficulty lifting or moving the affected arm, particularly overhead and behind the back
Pain that worsens at night, especially with active shoulder use throughout the day

How is shoulder arthritis diagnosed?

Dr. Lamplot is able to diagnose shoulder arthritis by gathering a comprehensive medical history, performing a thorough physical examination, and reviewing diagnostic imaging studies such as x-rays. The medical history will include the patient’s current symptoms, the initial injury (if applicable), any prior shoulder injuries specific to the affected joint, and any underlying health conditions that may contribute to shoulder arthritis. The affected shoulder is then examined for areas of pain and tenderness and shoulder mobility is evaluated.

Diagnostic imaging studies are beneficial tools for confirming shoulder arthritis. X-rays identify any bone-related damage, such as a fracture or evidence of prior shoulder dislocation, that can exacerbate or contribute to shoulder arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analyzes the soft-tissue structures of the shoulder joint and can determine the specific degree of arthritic damage. Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is used for pre-surgical planning.

What is the treatment for shoulder arthritis?

Non-surgical treatment:

Patients with mild to moderate shoulder arthritis often respond well to non-surgical therapies alone. Any symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, may be diminished with a combination of rest, alternating ice and heat application, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). If these symptoms are still bothersome despite these treatments, Dr. Lamplot can administer a corticosteroid injection directly into the affected shoulder joint. When appropriate, a physical therapy program can improve the shoulder’s range of motion as well as strengthen the muscles and soft tissues of the shoulder.

Surgical treatment:

Patients that fail to respond to non-surgical therapies or experience more severe shoulder arthritis symptoms may warrant surgical intervention. Dr. Lamplot will review several patient factors, including age, medical history, and activity level, to design an individualized treatment plan that implements one of the following surgical procedures to treat shoulder arthritis:

Shoulder Arthroscopy. This is a minimally invasive surgical method involving a small camera (arthroscope) to visualize the shoulder joint structures. Specialized surgical instruments are also used to excise any damaged tissue fragments and remove any other joint irregularities. This surgical approach is only useful for alleviating symptoms, as it does not prevent further arthritic damage to the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Arthroplasty. This surgical procedure involves replacing the ball-and-socket portion of the glenohumeral joint with plastic and metal pieces. The metal ball and plastic socket work together to mimic the smooth and pain-free motion of the native shoulder joint.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty. If the rotator cuff muscles that surround the shoulder are torn or not functioning properly, then a reverse shoulder replacement may be necessary. This procedure uses a metal sphere that replaces the socket and a plastic cup that replaces the ball.