As a medical professional with expertise in orthopedics, I have encountered numerous patients suffering from various forms of arthritis, including those affecting the shoulder. Arthritis in the shoulder can significantly impact a person's quality of life, and understanding the symptoms is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers.
Pain is indeed the most common symptom of shoulder arthritis. This pain is often described as a deep ache within the joint itself, which can be quite debilitating. It tends to be aggravated by activity, meaning that any movement or use of the shoulder can make the pain worse. For instance, simple tasks like lifting objects, reaching for something, or even just rotating the arm can lead to an increase in discomfort.
The nature of the pain can vary. Some patients may experience a dull, throbbing sensation, while others might describe it as a sharp, stabbing pain. The pain can also be intermittent, coming and going, or it can be constant, persisting throughout the day and night.
One of the key characteristics of shoulder arthritis pain is that it tends to progressively worsen over time. Initially, the pain might be mild and only present during or after strenuous activities. However, as the condition advances, the pain can become more severe and persistent, eventually limiting the range of motion and the ability to perform daily activities.
When the glenohumeral joint, which is the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder, is affected, the pain is typically centered in the back of the shoulder. This is because the glenohumeral joint is located in this region. The pain can also radiate to other areas, such as the upper arm or even the neck, depending on the extent of the inflammation and the specific structures within the joint that are involved.
Interestingly, many patients with shoulder arthritis report that their pain intensifies with changes in the weather. This is a phenomenon that is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the sensitivity of the inflamed tissues within the joint to changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature, and humidity.
In addition to pain, patients with shoulder arthritis may also experience other symptoms such as stiffness, particularly in the morning or after a period of inactivity. The stiffness usually improves with gentle movement but can limit the ability to fully extend or flex the arm.
Swelling and inflammation around the joint can also occur, making the shoulder appear larger or feel warm to the touch. This is due to the body's immune response to the damage within the joint.
Furthermore, there may be a grating or grinding sensation when moving the shoulder, known as crepitus. This is caused by the roughening of the joint surfaces due to the wear and tear of the cartilage.
Lastly, patients may notice a reduction in the range of motion of the shoulder. This is a result of the joint space narrowing and the bones rubbing against each other, which can lead to a decrease in the ability to lift the arm overhead or reach out to the side.
In summary, arthritis in the shoulder is a complex condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort. It is characterized by a deep joint ache that worsens with activity, progressively worsens over time, and can be influenced by weather changes. Other symptoms include stiffness, swelling, crepitus, and a reduced range of motion. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to minimize the impact of this condition on a patient's daily life.

read more >>

Pain. The most common symptom of arthritis of the shoulder is pain, which is aggravated by activity and progressively worsens. If the glenohumeral shoulder joint is affected, the pain is centered in the back of the shoulder and may intensify with changes in the weather. Patients complain of an ache deep in the joint.read more >>