Shoulder Arthritis Treated by Orthopedic Specialists in Arlington, VA

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative condition that can affect the acromioclavicular (AC) joint of the shoulder. Located at the point where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the tip of the shoulder blade (acromion), the hardworking AC joint functions as a pivot point for the arm, facilitating overhead movements.

Shoulder arthritis may develop after an injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, but it is more often associated with wear and tear that occurs along with the natural aging process. Over time, the smooth coating (articular cartilage) that covers the ends of the bones in the AC joint may begin to break down. As the cartilage wears away, it can become rough and frayed, reducing the space between the bones. During movement, the unprotected bone surfaces may begin to grind against each other, causing discomfort.

What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis?

Some common signs of shoulder arthritis include:

• Tenderness – In many cases, the pain is focused on the top of the shoulder and radiates toward the neck. Usually, the discomfort flares with activity and worsens with time.
• Reduced range of motion – As the condition progresses, the range of motion in the shoulder joint may be limited, making it more difficult to lift the arm.
• Crepitus – A clicking or grinding sensation may occur during movement.

Effective treatment for shoulder arthritis hinges on a proper diagnosis, which you can receive at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, Virginia. As part of the diagnostic process, your physician will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination to assess your pain, range of motion and other symptoms. He or she may also order an imaging study of your shoulder joint.

How Is Shoulder Arthritis Treated?

In most cases, shoulder arthritis is treated conservatively with a combination of:

• Activity modifications to avoid overhead arm movements and rest the shoulder joint
• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to help reduce pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy, including range-of-motion exercises to enhance the flexibility of the shoulder joint
• Ice or moist heat applications to improve comfort as needed
• Corticosteroid injections to alleviate painful inflammation

To address severe symptoms that do not respond sufficiently to conservative treatment, your shoulder specialist may discuss surgical treatment, such as a total shoulder replacement.

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center offers a full range of treatment options—both conservative and surgical—for shoulder arthritis. Contact us at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment in Arlington, VA.