Shoulder osteoarthritis

Shoulder osteoarthritis is cartilage wear in the ball-and-socket joint (glenohumeral joint). It brings deep joint ache, stiffness, and sometimes grinding with motion.

What it feels like

Deep shoulder pain with reaching, dressing, and sleep interruption are common.

Motion gradually declines, and crepitus (grinding) may appear with elevation or rotation.

Unlike early frozen shoulder, x-rays usually show joint-space narrowing and bone spurs.

What is going on

Cartilage loss and bone remodeling reduce smooth motion and inflame the joint lining.

Prior trauma, instability, or large chronic cuff tears can accelerate glenohumeral wear.

AC joint arthritis is a different joint at the top of the shoulder and can coexist.

How we evaluate

Range, strength, and crepitus exam plus radiographs establish most cases.

We evaluate the rotator cuff because cuff status influences both injection planning and later surgical options.

CT or MRI is reserved for preoperative planning or unclear differentials.

What we may offer

Activity redesign, gentle mobility, and strengthening within a comfortable arc are early tools.

Image-guided glenohumeral injections may help selected flares. PRP can be discussed case by case for joint disease.

Advanced symptomatic OA leads to arthroplasty conversations when nonoperative care no longer meets goals.

How is shoulder OA different from frozen shoulder?

Both limit motion. OA usually shows clear radiographic wear. Frozen shoulder often has near-normal x-rays with capsule contracture.

Can injections help shoulder arthritis?

They can reduce inflammatory flares for some people and support a rehab window. They do not reverse established bone change.

Is replacement the only option?

No. Many people manage for a long time with nonoperative care before considering replacement.

Does rotator cuff tearing cause shoulder OA?

Large chronic cuff tears can contribute to a specific arthritis pattern. We assess cuff status as part of planning.