Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Pathophysiology

Generally seen in those aged over 65 years and is less common than Osteoarthritis in other places such as the hips or knees. Can be brought on from previous shoulder surgery, previous injury (e.g. fracture), inflammatory condition (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis) or overuse injuries (e.g. weightlifters).

Symptoms

• Stiffness on shoulder movements and restriction

• Pain, particularly at night and difficulty finding a comfortable position

• Difficulty carrying out activities such as brushing hair or reaching cupboards

• Grinding, grating or clicking noises from the shoulder

Management

• Activity modification

• Ice or heat

• Pain relief

• Physiotherapy

• Orthopaedic options include reverse shoulder replacement in severe cases

Investigations

X-ray can assess the level of Osteoarthritis