Shoulder arthritis can cause persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, and reduced range of motion, making it difficult to lift the arm, reach overhead, sleep comfortably, or complete everyday activities. Symptoms often become more limiting as the joint damage progresses.
With more than 20 years of orthopedic experience, Dr. Brian Cohen provides shoulder arthritis treatment in Columbus, OH. He evaluates the location and severity of the joint damage before recommending nonsurgical care or, when necessary, a surgical treatment option.
Arthritis Overview
Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more of your joints or any condition where there is damage to the cartilage. Shoulder arthritis occurs when the cartilage starts to wear down on the ball and/or socket sides of the shoulder joint.
The shoulder has two joints. Shoulder arthritis sometimes refers to arthritis in the glenohumeral joint, which is the larger of the two. When the second joint in the shoulder develops arthritis, it is sometimes referred to as AC joint arthritis.
Types of Shoulder Arthritis
There are many different types of arthritis. The types that most commonly affect the shoulder include:
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Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis and occurs more frequently with age. It gradually damages the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. As the cartilage wears away, the bones of the joint may rub against each other and cause pain.
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Posttraumatic arthritis: This is a form of osteoarthritis that develops after an injury, such as a shoulder fracture or dislocation.
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Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune disease can attack multiple joints throughout the body. It often affects joints symmetrically, meaning the same joints may be involved on both sides of the body.
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Rotator cuff tear arthropathy: Arthritis can develop after a chronic, retracted rotator cuff tear. When the damaged rotator cuff can no longer hold the head of the humerus securely in the socket, abnormal joint contact may cause arthritis to develop.
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Avascular necrosis: This painful condition occurs when the blood supply to the head of the humerus is disrupted. Without adequate blood flow, bone tissue may deteriorate and eventually damage the shoulder joint.
Diagnosing Shoulder Arthritis
To determine whether you suffer from shoulder arthritis, Dr. Cohen or one of his sports medicine colleagues will gather a complete “history of present illness” from you. Next, the doctor will conduct a focused, comprehensive physical exam to evaluate your shoulder for areas of tenderness, assess range of motion, and establish whether you have normal or decreased arm strength. Depending on the findings, they may order an X-ray, perform an ultrasound and/or order an MRI or CT scan.
Shoulder Arthritis Causes and Risk Factors
Shoulder arthritis is caused by the wearing out of the cartilage that covers the ends of a bone. This can be caused by aging, wear and tear over time, joint diseases, injury, or deformity.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of shoulder arthritis include:
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Pain and weakness, which is aggravated by activity and may worsen at night
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Swelling or tenderness in the joints
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Early morning stiffness
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Limited range of motion
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment Options
Shoulder arthritis is typically treated through rest, dietary supplements, corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, occupational therapy and/or physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended. The best course of action will depend on factors such as your age and the severity of the disease. Common surgical treatments for shoulder arthritis include shoulder arthroscopy and total shoulder replacement.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Shoulder Arthritis Treatment in Columbus, OH
Shoulder arthritis can make lifting, reaching, sleeping, and other daily activities increasingly difficult. Dr. Cohen evaluates the type and severity of the arthritis before recommending treatment based on your symptoms, joint condition, and functional goals.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
