Types of Shoulder Arthritis

• Shoulder osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder that causes general wear and tear of the joint due to the natural process of ageing. It may affect various joints but is also common in the shoulder joint.
• Shoulder rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune illness that develops when the immune system, a natural defence mechanism, fights against its own healthy bodily tissue, including the joint’s inner lining. Such an inflammatory condition may present itself in both shoulders simultaneously.

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that can progress over time, and its symptoms may vary in each person, depending on its severity. However, common symptoms include the following:

• Disabling shoulder pain is a prevalent and shared experience among those with shoulder arthritis. It can cause pain in various parts of the shoulder, such as the back and side of the shoulder.
• Some people may even experience pain when not using the shoulder, and it can occur at any time of day. Shoulder stiffness, a common sign of joint deterioration due to advanced arthritis, can make everyday activities like reaching for items on a high shelf, getting dressed, or even combing your hair more difficult.
• Crepitus is a crackling noise associated with joint arthritis.
• Some people may experience locked shoulders.

How to Diagnose Shoulder Arthritis

Diagnosing a degenerative disorder like shoulder arthritis is a collaborative process. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical examination, inquire about your symptoms, and review your medical history. Your active participation in providing accurate information is crucial. An X-ray or sometimes a CT scan is done to determine the severity of the disorder and the degree of bone left in the socket.

Shoulder Arthritis FAQ: