Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative or inflammatory condition affecting the joints of the shoulder region, primarily the glenohumeral joint, located between the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula, and occasionally the acromioclavicular joint.
The most common form is osteoarthritis, which is characterized by progressive deterioration of the articular cartilage and the formation of osteophytes (bone spurs). Other forms include rheumatoid arthritis, a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease, and post-traumatic arthritis, which develops after previous fractures, dislocations, or severe injuries affecting the joint.
The main symptoms include chronic pain that worsens with movement, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and, in advanced stages, a characteristic grinding or cracking sensation (crepitus) during joint movement. The condition may be aggravated by long-standing rotator cuff damage, which alters the biomechanics of the shoulder joint and accelerates degenerative changes.
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging studies, most commonly X-rays, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required in certain cases to evaluate the condition of the surrounding soft tissues.
Treatment ranges from conservative measures, including physical therapy, medication, activity modification, and intra-articular injections, to surgical intervention. In advanced and symptomatic cases, shoulder arthroplasty (shoulder joint replacement) may be performed to relieve pain and restore functional ability.