Shoulder arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint.
The shoulder joint is composed of two bones: the humerus (upper arm bone) and the scapula (shoulder blade).
The humerus fits into a socket on the scapula called the glenoid.
The joint is covered by a layer of smooth cartilage that allows the bones to glide smoothly aga
Adoptar ciertos cambios en el estilo de vida, ejercicios y medidas de protección puede contribuir a prevenir o frenar la progresión de la artritis del hombro.
Conocer estrategias preventivas es valioso para aquellos en riesgo o que buscan manejar la condición de manera proactiva.
inst each other.
When the cartilage wears down or gets damaged, it leads to shoulder arthritis.
There are many types of shoulder arthritis, but the most common ones are:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of shoulder arthritis. It is also known as degenerative joint disease or wear-and-tear arthritis.
It occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint gradually breaks down over time, exposing the bone underneath.
This causes friction, inflammation and pain in the joint.
Osteoarthritis usually affects people over the age of 50, but it can also occur in younger people due to injury, overuse or genetics.
Osteoarthritis typically affects the glenohumeral joint, but it can also affect the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, which is where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the scapula.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
Pain in the shoulder, especially during or after movement
Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder
Swelling and tenderness in the joint
Grinding or clicking sensation in the joint
Difficulty performing daily activities that involve the shoulder, such as reaching, lifting or throwing
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation and damage to the joints.
It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, which is the thin membrane that lines the joint and produces synovial fluid.
Synovial fluid lubricates and nourishes the joint.
When the synovium becomes inflamed, it produces excess fluid and thickens, causing swelling, pain and stiffness in the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it often affects the shoulder joint, especially the glenohumeral joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects both shoulders symmetrically.
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Pain, swelling and stiffness in the shoulder, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Warmth and redness in the joint
- Fever, fatigue and weight loss
- Rheumatoid nodules, which are firm lumps under the skin near the joint
- Deformity and loss of function in the joint over time
3. Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy
Rotator cuff tear arthropathy is a type of shoulder arthritis that occurs as a result of a large, chronic or irreparable rotator cuff tear.
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help stabilize it.
The rotator cuff can tear due to injury, overuse or aging.
When the rotator cuff is torn, the humerus can move out of the glenoid socket, causing damage to the cartilage and bone.
This leads to arthritis, pain and weakness in the shoulder.
Rotator cuff tear arthropathy usually affects the glenohumeral joint, but it can also affect the AC joint.
The symptoms of rotator cuff tear arthropathy include:
- Severe pain in the shoulder, especially at night or when raising the arm
- Weakness and limited range of motion in the shoulder
- Difficulty performing overhead activities or reaching behind the back
- Drooping or sagging of the shoulder
- Crepitus, which is a grating or cracking sound in the joint
4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis is a type of shoulder arthritis that occurs after an injury to the shoulder joint, such as a fracture, dislocation or ligament tear.
The injury can damage the cartilage and bone in the joint, leading to inflammation, pain and stiffness.
Post-traumatic arthritis can develop soon after the injury or years later.
It can affect any part of the shoulder joint, depending on the location and severity of the injury.
The symptoms of post-traumatic arthritis include:
- Pain, swelling and stiffness in the shoulder, especially after activity or in cold weather
- Reduced range of motion and function in the shoulder
- Instability or looseness in the joint
- Deformity or change in the shape of the shoulder
5. Avascular Necrosis
Avascular necrosis is a rare but serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to the bone in the shoulder joint is disrupted, causing the bone to die and collapse.
This can happen due to trauma, steroid use, alcohol abuse, sickle cell disease, radiation therapy or other causes.
Avascular necrosis can affect any bone in the body, but it often affects the humeral head, which is the ball part of the shoulder joint.
When the humeral head collapses, it causes damage to the cartilage and bone in the joint, leading to arthritis, pain and stiffness.
The symptoms of avascular necrosis include:
- Gradual onset of pain in the shoulder, which may radiate to the arm or chest
- Increased pain with movement or pressure on the shoulder
- Reduced range of motion and function in the shoulder
- Swelling and tenderness in the joint
How Shoulder Arthritis is Diagnosed
To diagnose shoulder arthritis, a doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about the history and symptoms of the condition.
The doctor will check the shoulder for signs of inflammation, deformity, instability and reduced range of motion.
The doctor may also perform some tests to assess the strength and function of the shoulder, such as asking the patient to raise the arm, reach behind the back or touch the opposite shoulder.
The doctor may also order some imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and extent of the arthritis.
These tests may include:
- X-rays, which can show the loss of cartilage, bone spurs, fractures and other changes in the joint
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which can show the soft tissues, such as the rotator cuff, ligaments and synovium, as well as the bone and cartilage
- Ultrasound, which can show the fluid and inflammation in the joint
- Computed tomography (CT) scan, which can show the three-dimensional structure of the joint and the bone density
- The doctor may also perform some blood tests to rule out other causes of shoulder pain, such as infection, gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
Surgery and Other Treatments
The treatment of shoulder arthritis depends on the type, severity and impact of the condition on the patient’s quality of life.
The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, improve function and prevent further damage to the joint.
The treatment options may include:
Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, analgesics and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which can help reduce inflammation, pain and progression of the arthritis
Physical therapy, which can help improve the strength, flexibility and range of motion of the shoulder, as well as correct posture and alignment
Occupational therapy, which can help modify the activities and environment of the patient to reduce stress on the shoulder and improve function
Injections, such as corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which can help deliver anti-inflammatory and lubricating substances directly into the joint
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, yoga, tai chi and herbal remedies, which can help relieve pain and improve well-being
Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, eating a balanced diet and managing stress, which can help improve the overall health and reduce the risk of complications
If the conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief or the arthritis is too advanced, surgery may be considered.
The type of surgery depends on the type and extent of the arthritis, as well as the age, activity level and preferences of the patient.
The surgical options may include:
Arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small camera and instruments through small incisions in the shoulder.
The surgeon can use arthroscopy to remove loose bodies, inflamed tissue, bone spurs and damaged cartilage from the joint, as well as repair the rotator cuff or ligaments if needed.
Joint resurfacing, which is a procedure that involves replacing only the damaged surface of the humeral head with a metal cap, while preserving the rest of the bone and the glenoid.
This can help restore the smoothness and function of the joint, while avoiding the complications of a total shoulder replacement.
Hemiarthroplasty, which is a procedure that involves replacing only the humeral head with a metal prosthesis, while leaving the glenoid intact.
This can help reduce pain and improve function, especially in cases of avascular necrosis or rotator cuff tear arthropathy.
Total shoulder replacement, which is a procedure that involves replacing both the humeral head and the glenoid with metal and plastic components.
This can help restore the normal anatomy and function of the joint, as well as reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Reverse shoulder replacement, which is a procedure that involves reversing the position of the metal and plastic components, so that the metal ball is attached to the scapula and the plastic socket is attached to the humerus.
This can help increase the stability and function of the joint, especially in cases of severe rotator cuff damage or arthritis.
Living with Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis can affect the daily life and well-being of the patient.
However, with proper treatment and care, it is possible to manage the condition and improve the quality of life.
Some tips for living with shoulder arthritis include:
- Following the doctor’s advice and taking the prescribed medications as directed
- Applying ice or heat to the shoulder to relieve pain and inflammation
- Using a sling, brace or splint to support the shoulder and limit its movement if needed
- Avoiding activities that worsen the pain or cause further damage to the joint, such as lifting heavy objects, reaching overhead or sleeping on the affected side
- Performing gentle exercises and stretches to maintain the mobility and strength of the shoulder, as instructed by the physical therapist or doctor
- Seeking professional help if the pain, stiffness or function of the shoulder worsens or interferes with daily activities
- Joining a support group or online community to share experiences and coping strategies with other people who have shoulder arthritis
- Seeking counseling or therapy if the condition causes emotional distress, anxiety or depression
Conclusion
Shoulder arthritis is a common and painful condition that can affect the function and quality of life of the patient.
There are many types of shoulder arthritis, but the most common ones are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, post-traumatic arthritis and avascular necrosis.
The diagnosis of shoulder arthritis is based on the history, symptoms, physical examination and imaging tests of the patient.
The treatment of shoulder arthritis depends on the type, severity and impact of the condition on the patient’s life.
The treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, alternative therapies, lifestyle changes and surgery.
With proper treatment and care, it is possible to manage shoulder arthritis and improve the quality of life of the patient.
FAQs
What are the most common types of shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis comes in various forms, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being among the most prevalent types.
Understanding these types can help in recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment.
What are the typical symptoms of shoulder arthritis?
Symptoms of shoulder arthritis can include pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Learning to identify these symptoms early can lead to better management and improved quality of life.
How is osteoarthritis of the shoulder different from rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative condition resulting from wear and tear on the joint, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder.
Knowing the distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
What non-surgical options are available for managing shoulder arthritis?
There are various non-surgical approaches to alleviate shoulder arthritis symptoms, including medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Exploring these options can help individuals manage pain and maintain functionality.
When is surgery considered for shoulder arthritis, and what are the common procedures?
Surgery may be recommended when conservative measures are insufficient.
Understanding the criteria for surgical intervention and being aware of common procedures, such as joint replacement, can aid in making informed decisions about treatment.
How can individuals prevent or slow down the progression of shoulder arthritis?
Adopting certain lifestyle changes, exercises, and protective measures can contribute to preventing or slowing down the progression of shoulder arthritis.
Learning about preventive strategies is valuable for those at risk or seeking to manage the condition proactively.
