Shoulder Osteoarthritis
The term shoulder arthritis is widely known, but there are many types of arthritis, each with different causes and treatments. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is mainly caused by age-related wear and tear and can affect the shoulders, knees, hips and other joints. The risk of developing shoulder osteoarthritis increases with age. However, an injury can lead to shoulder osteoarthritis even in younger individuals.
- Causes of Shoulder Osteoarthritis
Shoulder osteoarthritis is caused by both genetic and behavioural factors.
- Age, it occurs more commonly in people over the age of 50
- Gender, it is more common in women
- Heredity and genetic factors
- Repetitive stress, such as jobs or sports that require repeated lifting or strain of the shoulder
- Overuse of the shoulder
- Obesity
What are the symptoms of shoulder osteoarthritis?
As with most types of arthritis, pain is the main symptom. Other symptoms include:
- pain
- stiffness and difficulty with movement that worsen when the joint has remained immobile for a period of time
- swelling and inflammation
- tenderness to touch
- a sensation of the joint rubbing or grinding (crepitus)
Non-surgical treatments for shoulder osteoarthritis
Non-surgical treatments can slow the progression of the condition and help manage shoulder pain. These options include:
- activity modification
- rest
- ice therapy
- physiotherapy
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections
- biological therapies (PRP)
When is surgical treatment necessary for shoulder osteoarthritis?
Surgical treatment for shoulder osteoarthritis is chosen when conservative treatment of the condition is unsuccessful. The aim of surgery is to improve shoulder function and relieve pain. The choice of treatment depends both on the patient’s characteristics (age, occupation, activity level) and on the characteristics of the condition (extent of damage). Surgical treatment options include:
- shoulder arthroscopy, which is selected in the early stages and may help relieve symptoms for a period of time
- shoulder arthroplasty, a definitive surgical treatment that involves total joint replacement with specialised implants that are biocompatible and fully compatible with the human body
If you also suffer from shoulder osteoarthritis, contact the specialist orthopaedic surgeon Andreas Leonidou for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment of the condition. The doctor has 14 years of continuous experience abroad and specialises in shoulder conditions.
Book an appointment