Shoulder arthritis can be a debilitating condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. The Arthritis Foundation estimates that about one in every three adults over 60 in the U.S. has shoulder arthritis. It can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making everyday tasks difficult to perform. Steven Struhl, MD, at AC Joint Separation, explores the causes and symptoms of shoulder arthritis to increase awareness and understanding of this condition.
Causes of Shoulder Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is caused by the cartilage covering the bone ends in a joint wearing out. Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine/Arthroscopic Surgeon Dr. Struhl routinely helps patients with four major causes of shoulder arthritis:
- Age: Like other forms of arthritis, shoulder arthritis is often a result of wear and tear on the joint over time. As we age, the protective cartilage in our joints can degenerate, leading to arthritis.
- Overuse: Repetitive overhead movements, such as those performed by athletes or individuals in certain professions, can contribute to the development of shoulder arthritis.
- Trauma: Previous injuries to the shoulder, such as fractures or dislocations, can increase the risk of developing arthritis in the shoulder joint.
- Inflammatory conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis can also lead to shoulder arthritis.
Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
Arthritis comes in various forms, each with its own set of symptoms that affect the body differently. The leading symptoms include:
- Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder joint, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities, is a common symptom of shoulder arthritis.
- Stiffness: Individuals with shoulder arthritis may experience stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move the arm and perform daily activities.
- Limited range of motion: As the condition progresses, individuals may find it challenging to raise their arms or reach behind their backs due to the limited range of motion in the shoulder joint.
- Swelling and tenderness: Inflammation of the shoulder joint can cause swelling and tenderness in the affected area.
- Crepitus: Some individuals may experience a crackling or grinding sensation in the shoulder joint during movement, known as crepitus.
Symptoms of shoulder arthritis can vary from person to person, and early detection and treatment are essential for managing the condition effectively. If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain or any of the mentioned symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
NYC Shoulder Arthritis Treatment
Shoulder arthritis can have a significant impact on an individual’s daily life, causing pain, stiffness and reduced mobility in the shoulder joint. Steven Struhl MD – AC Joint Separation specialists can make a diagnosis and timely medical intervention with a range of appropriate treatment options to manage the condition and improve their overall quality of life.
Contact us in NYC or White Plains for swift, effective pain relief and long-lasting treatment to return you to a normal, pain-free life.
Posted on behalf of Steven Struhl MD
