What is Shoulder Arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis refers to damage to the cartilage in the shoulder joints. It occurs when the cartilage starts wearing down on the ball and/or socket of the shoulder joint, causing pain.
The 3 types of Shoulder Arthritis are:
- Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy – The most common type of Shoulder Arthritis in Singapore, Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy is the end stage of a long-standing rotator cuff tear
- Osteoarthritis – a degenerative joint disease
- Inflammatory Arthritis (e.g. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Severe Gout, and Psoriasis)
Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
Causes
Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy occurs when a long-standing rotator cuff tear is left untreated.
For Osteoarthritis, it can occur due to:
- Previous injury to the shoulder
- Wear and tear for patients over the age of 50
- Osteoarthritis of other joints
Symptoms
The symptoms of arthritis in the shoulder tend to progress as the condition worsens. Here are some of the common symptoms you might experience:
- Pain at the shoulder joint
- Weakness of the shoulder
- Swelling or tenderness at the joint
- A feeling of grinding within the joint
How is it diagnosed?
- Physical Exam
The doctor will first take down your medical history and perform a physical examination to check your shoulder function. - Imaging tests
An X-ray or CT scan may be done to determine the degree and severity of your shoulder condition.
Upon the results of your exam/tests, the specialist will then discuss with you the possible treatment options which suits your condition.
How is it diagnosed?
- Physical Exam
The doctor will first take down your medical history and perform a physical examination to check your shoulder function. - Imaging tests
An X-ray or CT scan may be done to determine the degree and severity of your shoulder condition.
Upon the results of your exam/tests, the specialist will then discuss with you the possible treatment options which suits your condition.
Treatment Options
There are various treatment options for arthritis in the shoulder such as medication, lifestyle changes (such as daily activities and/or exercise) or physiotherapy. However, if your condition has worsened, surgery may be recommended. Discuss with an orthopaedic surgeon to determine which treatments are most suitable for you.
Keep in mind that if your condition requires surgery, your Orthopaedic Surgeon should always educate you on:
- Risks of the surgery
- How to prepare for a surgery
- What will be required for post-op care
Physiotherapy
Targeted strength and flexibility exercises can help to alleviate pain and improve function of the shoulder.
Medications
Medications may be prescribed to help manage your symptoms (e.g. anti-inflammatory, paracetamol)
Supplements
Supplements can also help to reduce the pain and inflammation, as well as improve function in your shoulder.
Disclaimer
Shoulder | Elbow Orthopaedic Group does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians that are referenced in this article. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance should consult his or her Orthopaedic Surgeon.
If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
Keep in mind that if your condition requires surgery, your Orthopaedic Surgeon should always educate you on:
- Risks of the surgery,
- How to prepare for a surgery
- What will be required for post-op care