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On any given year, over 3 million Americans struggle with arthritis, which most commonly invades the hands, back, and joints. Within the shoulder, two joints exist: the Acromioclavicular joint, also known as the AC joint, and the glenohumeral joint, also called the scapulothoracic joint. Arthritis can develop in either joint and for a multitude of reasons. Examples include Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis. Physicians utilize medical imaging to determine which type of arthritis exists and its exact location.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage (or flexible tissue at the ends of bones) erodes over time due to normal wear and tear. Rheumatoid arthritis refers to the systemic inflammation of joint lining, which can affect many joints of the body at once. Posttraumatic arthritis can develop as a result of an impact or untreated injury.

Symptoms of shoulder arthritis typically progress over time. The most common symptoms include achiness, loss of mobility, and pain. With shoulder arthritis, many patients report pain while side sleeping, which can result in limited restful sleep.

Treatments vary depending on the type and location of the arthritis. Specialists should work toward helping the patient to preserve mobility, reduce pain, and slow the progression of the disease through a myriad of modalities. Medications, physical therapy, and in rare instances, surgery can help reduce the shoulder arthritis and retain joint movement.
If you are experiencing shoulder arthritis, please see an orthopedic specialist to discuss your options for slowing the progression of the disease and achieving a better quality of life.

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