Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder Arthritis Overview

Shoulder arthritis is a common source of chronic shoulder pain and shoulder disability that affects more than 20% of the older population. There are 2 distinct joints in the shoulder area that can be affected by arthritis—the AC joint (acromioclavicular), which is where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the tip of the shoulder bone, and the glenohumeral joint where the upper arm bone (humerus) meets the shoulder blade (scapula). Damage to the cartilage surfaces is usually the primary cause of shoulder arthritis.

What are the Types of Shoulder Arthritis?

Osteoarthritis: This degenerative shoulder condition is commonly referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis because the smooth outer coverage (articular cartilage) is essentially destroyed. Osteoarthritis usually affects people over 50 years of age and is very common in the AC shoulder joint (although it is not always symptomatic) and fairly common in the glenohumeral joint.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: This arthritis can affect a person of any age and usually affects multiple joints on both sides of the body. For example, in addition to affecting the shoulder, the knee and ankle might also show signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune, inflammatory condition of the joint lining.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Post-traumatic arthritis is a form of osteoarthritis that develops after an injury, such as a fracture or dislocation of the shoulder. This type of arthritis can also develop in the glenohumeral joint after a chronic rotator cuff tear.

What are the symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?

The most common symptom associated with arthritis of the shoulder is pain. Arthritis-related shoulder pain can range from instances of long, mild pain, to periods of intense, sharp shoulder pain. The pain is almost always intensified and aggravated by activity and progressively worsens.

Depending on which joint is affected by arthritis, the pain may be felt in the center of the back of the shoulder (if the glenohumeral shoulder joint is affected), whereas pain will typically be focused on the top or front of the shoulder if the arthritis is in the AC joint. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis will have pain in both areas and a change in weather will usually intensify the discomfort.

Limited range of motion or stiffness and difficulty lifting, reaching or stretching the arm can also be symptoms of shoulder arthritis. Mechanical symptoms such as clicking, snapping, or popping can also be present. As the disease progresses, any movement of the shoulder can cause pain. Night pain is common and sleeping may be difficult.

Normal Humeral Head

Arthrtic Humeral Head

(Click to Enlarge) Both image demonstrate loose bodies within the glenohumeral joint that are most commonly found in shoulders with degenerative osteoarthritis and/or chonderal defects.

(Click to Enlarge) Both images are good examples of large osteophytes on the inferior aspect of the humeral head that would be removed during the CAM procedure. Large osteophytes have been shown to impinge upon the axillary nerve which can be a source of pain in those with osteoarthritis.

(Click to Enlarge) The left arthroscopic image showing the axillary nerve with surrounding scar tissue in a patient with degenerative osteoarthritis. Axillary neurolysis (relief of nerve entrapment from scar tissue) is one aspect of the CAM procedure that is thought to decrease pain and improve shoulder function. The right arthroscopic image shows the removal of scar tissue surrounding the axillary nerve.

(Click to Enlarge) The top image is a chondral defect that subsequently underwent a microfracture procedure. Both bottom images are good examples of the microfracture technique used for isolated chondral defects. The defect margins are debrided, the calcified layer is removed and small holes are made in the subchondral plate 3-4 mm apart and approximately 4 mm deep. The purpose is to allow bone marrow elements to emanate from the holes to form a “superclot” within the chondral defect. Stem cells then mature into fibrocartilage which fills the chondral defect over time.

(Click to Enlarge) This x-ray image shows a total shoulder arthroplasty in a patient with severe degenerative osteoarthritis.

Are you searching for more information on shoulder arthritis and treatment options?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

How is Shoulder Arthritis treated?

Non-Surgical Treatment

There are many treatment options for shoulder arthritis. Many patients can live with the symptoms for years and will only need to take pain medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, or they can receive cortisone shots to help relieve shoulder arthritis symptoms. Physical therapy exercises also help to preserve motion and strength. For others who experience chronic shoulder arthritis symptoms and whose shoulder arthritis continues to worsen, surgery is available.

Surgical treatment

Treatment decisions are based upon the cause, the intensity of the symptoms, and the severity of the patient’s disease. Each year, over 50,000 shoulder replacement surgeries are performed in the United States to relieve pain and improve function for shoulders that are severely damaged by glenohumeral arthritis.

Arthritis in the very early stages can be controlled and treated with arthroscopic techniques. During this procedure, Dr. Millett will trim out the inflamed synovial lining tissue and remove pieces or fragments of degenerated cartilage. Arthroscopic treatment for shoulder arthritis will not cure the arthritic condition, but it will prolong more drastic measures and relieve many symptoms for a while.

In more severe shoulder arthritis conditions, Dr. Millett has developed a new joint preservation procedure called the CAM procedure. CAM is an acronym for Comprehensive Arthroscopic Management, which is a very precise combination of surgical procedures aimed at treating all the major pain generators. The CAM procedure can be performed in young, active patients with arthritis who wish to preserve their shoulder joints or in older patients who wish to avoid joint replacement surgery. Although minimally invasive, the CAM procedure is very technically demanding and is not performed widely at other surgical centers. Nevertheless, the clinical results have shown decreased pain, improved function, and good durability, without the need for total joint replacement.

When the arthritis is end-stage or in other instances where the joint can no longer be salvaged, joint replacement surgery may be the best option. Joint replacement, also known as total shoulder replacement or arthroplasty, has been around for many years and Dr. Millett has performed several hundred of these procedures.

Shoulder replacement surgeries are among Dr. Millett’s favorite procedures to perform because the results are very predictable and the pain relief is so complete. Shoulder replacement surgery is highly effective at eliminating pain and restoring function so that patients can return to activities of daily living and sports such as skiing, tennis, and golf. During this procedure, the joint is surgically replaced through an incision in the front of the shoulder, and a metal ball and plastic socket are inserted to recreate the damaged joint. Only one muscle is split during the procedure, allowing for a smoother recovery with less tissue damage. Full recovery with return to unrestricted activities can be expected by 3 to 4 months.

Before a treatment plan can be put into place, Dr. Millett will need to examine your shoulder and review various imaging studies such as X-ray’s and MRI’s to determine the cause of the shoulder arthritis and the stage of advancement. He can then discuss the various treatment options with you and help develop the best course of treatment given your particular circumstances and goals.

For additional resources on shoulder arthritis, please contact the office of Dr. Peter Millett, orthopedic shoulder specialist serving patients in Vail, Aspen and the surrounding Denver, Colorado communities

Am I Candidate for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

What is my Alternative to Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

What are my Treatment Options for Shoulder Osteoarthritis?

What Options Exist for Young Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder?

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!