Shoulder Arthritis
A gradual wearing down of the smooth cartilage in the shoulder joint that leads to pain, stiffness, and a grinding sensation with movement.
About this condition
Shoulder arthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions the ball and socket of the joint breaks down over time. Without that smooth surface, bone rubs against bone, which causes pain, swelling, and a loss of motion. It most often affects the main shoulder joint or the joint at the top of the shoulder.
Dr. Sonntag treats arthritis conservatively first. Many patients improve with activity changes, targeted physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, or injections. When these steps stop controlling the pain and the joint limits daily life, he discusses whether a shoulder replacement is the right next step.
Common symptoms
- Deep, aching pain in the shoulder
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Grinding or clicking with movement
- Pain that worsens at night
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back
- Weakness in the affected arm
Common causes
- Age-related cartilage wear (osteoarthritis)
- Previous shoulder injury or fracture
- Rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis
- Long-term rotator cuff tears
- Genetics and family history
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Care with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
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