shoulder SHOULDER ARTHRITIS
DEFINITION:
- A destructive process resulting in the loss of cartilage and subsequent narrowing of the joint space. (See illustration).
MECHANISM OF INJURY / HOW IT OCCURS:
- Most common etiologies include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
- Chronic rotator cuff tears can lead to an entity called rotator cuff arthropathy resulting from the humeral head riding high in the socket (glenoid).
- Prior fracture or dislocation can lead to the development of post-traumatic arthritis.
SYMPTOMS:
- Individuals present with a complaint of pain exacerbated with movement often becoming constant and even at noted at rest.
- Night pain is a common complaint especially when lying on the affected shoulder.
- Decreased range of motion.
DIAGNOSIS:
- Physical examination will reveal muscle atrophy, a result of disuse.
- Discomfort with palpation around the shoulder.
- A grating sensation (crepitation) with motion.
- Limited range of motion.
- Decreased strength.
- Radiographs will confirm the arthritic process.
TREATMENT/REHABILITATION:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS).
- Rehabilitation to include stretching and strengthening exercises to preserve motion and function. (See exercises for shoulder arthritis).
- Corticosteroid injection may afford temporary benefit.
- In advanced cases shoulder replacement surgery is an option.