
S. Houston Payne, Jr., MD
Hand & Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder arthritis can seriously affect your daily life. Simple activities like lifting groceries, combing your hair, or reaching overhead can become painful and frustrating.
At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, with locations in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, our experienced orthopedic team is here to offer expert evaluation and tailored treatment for shoulder conditions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Shoulder arthritis refers to the inflammation and degeneration of the shoulder joint, leading to pain and reduced mobility. The shoulder comprises two main joints: the glenohumeral joint, where the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into the shoulder socket of the shoulder blade (scapula), and the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Arthritis can affect either or both of these joints.
There are several types of shoulder arthritis:
The symptoms of shoulder arthritis often develop gradually but can become severe over time. Common signs include the following:
If you’re noticing these signs, it may be time to consult a shoulder specialist. A thorough evaluation can help determine whether you have shoulder arthritis and what treatment options may be most effective.
There are several contributing factors that may lead to the development of shoulder arthritis:
As arthritis progresses, the smooth cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint can deteriorate. This may cause the formation of bone spurs, which further limit movement and increase discomfort.
A proper diagnosis of shoulder arthritis typically involves:
Accurate diagnosis helps ensure that the treatment plan aligns with your condition and goals. At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, we use a comprehensive approach to assess the full function and health of the shoulder joint.
Treatment depends on the severity and progression of arthritis. While non-operative treatments may work for many people, some may benefit more from surgical intervention. Our goal is always to find the right solution for each patient.
The following non-surgical treatments may relieve pain and slow the progression of arthritis:
While these approaches may help reduce pain and delay the need for surgery, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially if the joint damage is advanced.
Surgical treatments are considered when non-surgical options no longer provide pain relief or adequate function. Surgical treatment may include the following:
Surgery can be an effective method to treat arthritis and restore mobility. At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, we offer both traditional and advanced surgical treatment options, based on each patient’s condition and lifestyle goals.
While it’s not always possible to completely prevent arthritis of the shoulder, there are steps that may help reduce your risk:
Being proactive about shoulder health can go a long way in minimizing symptoms and maintaining function as you age.
Shoulder pain and stiffness don’t have to control your life. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or advanced arthritis, the team at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow is here to help. With convenient locations in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, our orthopedic specialists are committed to helping you regain mobility and get back to doing what you love.
If you’re ready to explore your options — from physical therapy to reverse total shoulder replacement — contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and offers lasting pain relief.
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Hand & Orthopaedic Surgeon
Hand & Orthopaedic Surgeon
Hand & Orthopaedic Surgeon