Shoulder osteoarthritis

Shoulder osteoarthritis is present when the articular cartilage of the shoulder is worn out.  Shoulder osteoarthritis can be a debilitating condition.  The most definitive treatment of shoulder osteoarthritis is shoulder replacement.  Shoulder replacements are less common than hip and knee replacements, but the long-term success is comparable to those procedures.

Symptoms

• Pain with any movement of the shoulder joint
• Night pain
• Clicking and locking sensation of the shoulder
• Stiffness and lack of motion

Cause

• Activity.  Laborers and active individuals can wear out the joint surfaces, which leads to osteoarthritis
• Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout
• Previous shoulder fractures or injuries 
• Instability.  Multiple dislocations can lead to arthritis 
• Rotator cuff tears can lead to rotator cuff tear arthropathy;
• Avascular necrosis.  Blood supply to the shoulder can be compromised following trauma or steroid use.

Non-operative Treatment

• Steroid injection can be used to decrease inflammation in the shoulder joint; however, this is a temporary measure as the joint will not be resurfaced on its own.  
• Anti-inflammatory medication can decrease inflammation in the joint.
• Physical Therapy.  The aim of the treatment is to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles so that there is less instability.  However, the effect is limited as the joint surface is already worn out.

Surgical Treatment

• Shoulder replacement surgery replaces the shoulder's damaged bone and cartilage with a metal and plastic implant.