Book Appointment
972-492-1334

Shoulder Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options in Texas

by | Apr 7, 2026 | Shoulder

Shoulder Pain

Overview

Understanding Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain seen at OrthoTexas. This condition develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the shoulder joint begins to break down. As the cartilage wears away, the bones may start to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. While shoulder arthritis can affect anyone, it is most often seen in adults over the age of 50. Contributing factors include normal “wear-and-tear” over time, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, or injuries like rotator cuff tears and fractures. Treatment options range from nonsurgical care, such as physical therapy and medications, to surgical interventions, including shoulder arthroscopy and joint replacement.

Types of Shoulder Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder. Each type of shoulder arthritis has distinct causes and may require specific treatment strategies.

  • The most common is osteoarthritis, a degenerative “wear-and-tear” form of arthritis in which the cartilage gradually breaks down.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and damage.
  • Post-traumatic arthritis develops after injuries such as fractures or dislocations.
  • Additional forms include rotator cuff tear arthropathy, where a large rotator cuff tear changes the joint structure, and avascular necrosis, where poor blood supply leads to bone tissue death.

Causes and Risk Factors

Shoulder arthritis may develop gradually due to aging, genetics, or repetitive stress on the shoulder joint. Osteoarthritis is most often the result of decades of use and natural degeneration of cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis arises from autoimmune activity, while post-traumatic arthritis follows shoulder injuries. Risk factors include a family history of arthritis, prior rotator cuff tears, and activities or sports that involve repetitive overhead motions. Patients who have experienced fractures or joint dislocations are also at higher risk. Although lifestyle choices such as diet or supplements cannot prevent arthritis, early recognition and treatment of symptoms can help maintain shoulder function.

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

The hallmark symptoms of shoulder arthritis are pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Pain is typically felt deep in the joint and may radiate into the upper arm or toward the elbow. Many patients notice discomfort with overhead reaching, lifting, or placing the arm behind the back. Night pain is common, often disrupting sleep. Stiffness can worsen over time, leading to difficulty with everyday activities such as dressing or lifting objects. As arthritis progresses, patients may experience grinding, cracking, or popping sensations known as crepitus. Swelling and weakness may also develop, further limiting mobility.

Diagnosis and Assessment

Diagnosing shoulder arthritis begins with a medical history and physical exam. Physicians assess pain levels, shoulder strength, and range of motion, and check for instability or rotator cuff involvement. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to evaluate the degree of cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or other structural changes. Blood tests may also be ordered when rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions are suspected. A clear diagnosis is essential for determining the severity of the arthritis and selecting the most appropriate treatment.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

In most cases, the first line of treatment for shoulder arthritis is nonsurgical management. This can include:

  • Physical therapy to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
  • Activity modification to avoid movements that aggravate pain.
  • Heat and ice for symptom relief—moist heat for stiffness, ice for pain control.
  • Medications such as anti-inflammatories for pain and swelling.
  • Steroid injections, which can provide temporary relief from pain, especially at night.

These conservative treatments cannot stop cartilage loss, but they often help patients manage symptoms and delay the need for surgery. Many patients find relief through a combination of stretching, therapy, and occasional injections.

Surgical Options for Shoulder Arthritis

When nonsurgical care no longer provides adequate relief, surgical treatment may be considered. The main procedures include shoulder arthroscopy and shoulder replacement (total shoulder arthroplasty).

  • Shoulder arthroscopy involves inserting a small camera through tiny incisions to clean out loose cartilage, smooth rough bone surfaces, and release tight tissues. This minimally invasive procedure may reduce pain and improve mobility in carefully selected patients. Recovery is faster compared to open surgery, but arthritis will usually progress over time, and additional surgery may be needed later.
  • Shoulder replacement is a more permanent solution. The damaged joint surfaces are replaced with metal and plastic components. Patients typically spend one night in the hospital and wear a sling for about six weeks. Most return to unrestricted activities within 4–5 months. Joint replacement has a long track record of success, with implants often lasting 12–15 years.

Types of Shoulder Replacement

Two forms of joint replacement are available:

  • Anatomic shoulder replacement, recommended when the rotator cuff tendons are intact.
  • Reverse shoulder replacement, used when rotator cuff tears are present.

Both options provide significant pain relief and improved function, and overall success rates exceed 90%.

When to Consider Surgery

The decision to proceed with surgery is highly individualized. At OrthoTexas, we emphasize patient choice. As Dr. Mitchell Fagelman explains: “You will tell me when you are ready for surgery—I will never tell you that you must have surgery.” Most patients consider surgery when pain and stiffness significantly interfere with daily life despite nonsurgical treatments. A consultation with an orthopedic surgeon helps determine the most appropriate surgical option and recovery plan.

Expert Orthopedic Care

Dr. Mitchell Fagelman, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at OrthoTexas, focuses on advanced treatments for shoulder arthritis. A comprehensive evaluation—including history, physical exam, and imaging—guides diagnosis and ensures patients receive the best care for their individual needs. From physical therapy and injections to surgical reconstruction or replacement, OrthoTexas offers full-spectrum solutions to relieve pain, restore motion, and improve quality of life.

Your path to recovery starts here. Schedule an appointment with our specialized orthopedic surgeons today. Book your appointment online or call (972) 492-1334.