Shoulder Arthritis (Gleno-Humeral Osteoarthritis) - Fact Sheet
What is it?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the general wear and tear of the articular cartilage lining of a joint. OA can present in the gleno-humeral joint (the shoulder), however, it is less common than the knees and hips, which are weight-bearing joints. History of shoulder injuries, shoulder surgeries (such as arthroscopes) can lead to shoulder OA, as well as general wear and tear.
Signs and symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?
• Severe shoulder stiffness, particularly overhead, occasionally with “grinding” type sensations accompanying movement.
• Secondary muscular referred pain can be present down the side or front of the shoulder, normally about halfway to the elbow.
• Pain is generally an ache type pain, that is more intermittent than constant.
• Pain is generally worse in the morning, and can be worse in cold weather
• An X-ray is generally the best imaging to find Osteoarthritic changes in the shoulder joint.
Treatment for Shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder mobility exercises: movements that help push the shoulder into more range, especially overhead, can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion of the arthritic shoulder.
Strengthening exercises: Exercises targeting the muscles of the shoulder blades and rotator cuff can help improve the efficiency of movement of the shoulder, and can help improve pain and function.
Surgery: An operation called a reverse shoulder replacement can help restore pain free range of motion, depending on the severity of the shoulder OA.
Rehab/Prehab: if you decide you want to undertake a shoulder replacement for your OA, strength-based exercises both pre and post-surgery can make a massive difference in your recovery.
