Shoulder Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN

What Is Shoulder Osteoarthritis?

Shoulder osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the shoulder, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It commonly affects the glenohumeral joint, where the upper arm bone (humerus) meets the shoulder blade (scapula).

As the cartilage wears away, bones can rub against each other, causing pain and the formation of bone spurs

Struggling with shoulder stiffness or pain from osteoarthritis? Joint Injection Clinic near Kent and Essex offers treatments to help you move comfortably again.

Schedule your consultation now!
Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Common Causes of Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Shoulder osteoarthritis can develop due to a variety of factors:

  • Aging: Osteoarthritis is often a natural part of the aging process, with the risk increasing after age 50.
  • Prior Injury or Trauma: Previous injuries to the shoulder, such as dislocations, fractures, or severe impacts, can damage the joint cartilage and contribute to the development of OA.
  • Underlying Inflammatory Joint Disease: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can severely damage joints and increase the risk of secondary osteoarthritis.
  • Rotator Cuff Tears: Large, untreated rotator cuff tears can lead to a type of arthritis called rotator cuff tear arthropathy, where the humerus head rubs against other bones.
  • Avascular Necrosis: This condition, where blood flow to the humerus head is disrupted, causing bone death, can also lead to shoulder OA.
  • Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis may increase susceptibility.
  • Obesity: While more commonly associated with weight-bearing joints, obesity can still contribute to increased stress on the shoulder.
  • Female Sex: Osteoarthritis is more common in women.

Symptoms of Shoulder Osteoarthritis

The symptoms of shoulder OA often progress over time and can vary in severity. Common signs include:

  • Pain: This is the most frequent symptom, often described as a deep ache within the joint. Pain may initially occur during activity but can become constant, even at rest, as the condition worsens.
  • Stiffness and Loss of Range of Motion: Stiffness can make everyday tasks difficult, limiting the ability to lift the arm, reach overhead, or perform other movements.
  • Grinding, Clicking, or Popping Sensations: These noises may occur with movement due to the rough surfaces of the bones rubbing together.
  • Difficulty Sleeping: Pain, especially at night, can make it hard to find a comfortable sleeping position and disrupt sleep.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Treatment for shoulder osteoarthritis aims to manage pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment approaches are typically tailored to the individual and the severity of their condition:

Nonsurgical Treatments:

  • Activity Modification: Adjusting or avoiding activities that worsen pain, such as lifting heavy objects or repetitive overhead movements, can help.
  • Rest: Resting the affected shoulder can reduce stress on the joint.
  • Ice and Heat: Applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain, while heat can ease stiffness.
  • Pain Medications: Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) can help manage pain and inflammation.
  • Physiotherapy: Exercises to improve shoulder flexibility, strength, and range of motion are crucial for maintaining function.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of cortisone into the joint can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Injections of hyaluronic acid, a component of joint fluid, may help with lubrication and pain relief for some individuals, although evidence supporting their efficacy varies.

Surgical Treatments:

When nonsurgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include:

  • Arthroscopic Debridement: This minimally invasive procedure involves removing loose cartilage fragments and bone spurs through small incisions.
  • Shoulder Replacement (Arthroplasty): In cases of severe cartilage damage, the damaged parts of the shoulder joint may be replaced with artificial components made of plastic and metal. The type of replacement depends on which parts of the joint are affected.

Rehabilitation after surgery is essential for regaining strength and mobility.

Prognosis and Prevention

While there is no cure for shoulder osteoarthritis, various treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly (low-impact activities), and avoiding injury can help reduce the risk of developing or worsening shoulder OA. Early diagnosis and intervention can also help slow the progression of the disease.

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Get Help for Shoulder Osteoarthritis at Joint Injection Clinic

Shoulder osteoarthritis can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, making simple activities like reaching, dressing, or lifting your arm uncomfortable. If shoulder pain is affecting your sleep, work, or exercise routine, professional treatment can help you maintain your independence and daily comfort.

At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers evidence-based treatments to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and support your shoulder function.

We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:

Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London

Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.

Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London

Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.

Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas

Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.


We use ultrasound-guided assessments for precise evaluation, targeted injection therapies, and tailored rehabilitation plans to help reduce pain and improve shoulder movement, so you can get back to your usual activities with confidence.

Schedule your consultation now!