Arthritis of the shoulder
Arthritis of the shoulder is relatively rare compared with osteoarthritis affecting the hip or knee, but the principles of treatment are similar.
Symptoms of Arthritis of the shoulder
This condition presents with progressive pain, stiffness and limitation of shoulder function.
Treatment of Arthritis of the shoulder
Non operative treatment is always considered first. This consists of analgesia, anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy and a steroid injection into the joint.
When should surgery and shoulder replacement be considered?
Surgery is considered when other treatment options have failed. Shoulder joint replacement, although less common than hip or knee replacement, has been undertaken successfully in excess of 20 years. In this operation the surfaces of the joint are re-surfaced or replaced with metal or plastic bearing surfaces. Shoulder replacement offers a 90% chance of success in terms of pain relief and function.
