What It Is

Arthritis in the shoulder occurs when the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the shoulder joint begins to wear down, leading to pain, inflammation, and stiffness. The shoulder can be affected by different types of arthritis, the most common being Osteoarthritis, which develops over time due to wear and tear. Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can also affect the shoulder joint by attacking the joint lining. Over time, arthritis in the shoulder can make daily activities like lifting, reaching, or even getting dressed painful and difficult.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Persistent shoulder pain that worsens with movement or after activity
  • Stiffness in the shoulder, especially in the morning or after periods of rest
  • Swelling and tenderness around the joint
  • A grinding or clicking sensation during shoulder movement, known as crepitus
  • Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to lift the arm or perform overhead activities
  • Weakness or instability in the shoulder

Diagnosis

Dr. Romanelli will start with a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of your symptoms and a physical examination of the shoulder. This will involve testing your range of motion and joint stability. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, can help determine the extent of cartilage loss, while an MRI may be used to assess damage to the surrounding ligaments and tissues.

Treatment

Although arthritis is a chronic condition, many treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve shoulder function. Treatment options range from conservative therapies to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Non-surgical treatments are often recommended first to help relieve symptoms and improve function in the shoulder joint. These include:

  • Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may also be used to provide temporary relief from inflammation.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises aimed at improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder can help reduce strain on the joint and improve overall function.
  • Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate the shoulder and making adjustments to your daily routine can help reduce pain and prevent further joint damage.
  • Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat or ice to the shoulder can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
  • Assistive Devices: Slings or shoulder braces may provide additional support, particularly during activities that require lifting or reaching.

Surgical Procedure

When arthritis has progressed to a point where non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be recommended to relieve pain and restore function. Surgical options include:

  • Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera to clean out the joint, removing loose cartilage or bone spurs that are contributing to pain and inflammation.
  • Shoulder Replacement Surgery: For severe arthritis, total or partial shoulder replacement (arthroplasty) may be necessary. In this procedure, the damaged parts of the shoulder are replaced with artificial components, providing significant pain relief and improved range of motion.
  • Reverse Shoulder Replacement: In cases where the rotator cuff is also damaged, a reverse shoulder replacement may be performed. This procedure alters the mechanics of the joint, allowing other muscles to take over the work of the damaged rotator cuff.

Physical Therapy

Whether you’re managing arthritis with non-surgical treatments or recovering from surgery, physical therapy is essential. A tailored rehabilitation program will focus on improving shoulder strength, restoring range of motion, and minimizing pain. After surgery, physical therapy is critical for regaining full function and mobility in the shoulder. Dr. Romanelli collaborates with physical therapists to create individualized recovery plans, helping you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.

If shoulder pain and stiffness are affecting your daily life, Dr. Romanelli can provide expert care to help you manage arthritis and restore your shoulder’s function. From conservative treatments to advanced surgical solutions, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your needs.