Shoulder Arthritis Treatment Options

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the shoulder. The most common form is osteoarthritis, which occurs as cartilage gradually breaks down over time. This “wear and tear” arthritis is often associated with aging but may also develop after previous shoulder injuries.

Regardless of the cause, shoulder arthritis can significantly limit your ability to perform daily tasks. Common symptoms include dull or aching pain deep in the shoulder, stiffness that worsens in the morning or after activity, reduced range of motion, and a grinding or clicking sensation when moving the arm.

In many cases, shoulder arthritis can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint function. Our orthopedic specialists at Ortho Illinois will perform a thorough evaluation using advanced imaging and physical examination to determine the severity of the condition and develop a customized treatment pan. Conservative treats include:

• Activity modification and rest: Reducing repetitive overhead movements and allowing the joint to rest can help decrease inflammation and discomfort. Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as using the opposite arm for certain tasks or avoiding heavy lifting, may help protect the joint.
• Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are often recommended to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. For patients with more severe pain, prescription-strength medications may be considered.
• Physical therapy: A structured physical therapy program plays a vital role in restoring shoulder mobility and strength. Targeted exercises help maintain range of motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, and support the joint to reduce stress and improve function.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide powerful anti-inflammatory relief for several months, particularly in cases of moderate arthritis. For some patients biologic treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be recommended to relieve pain and improve function.
• Assistive devices and heat/cold therapy: Using supportive braces or applying heat before activity and ice afterward can help manage stiffness and pain. These simple measures can provide meaningful relief when combined with other conservative treatments.

If nonsurgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief and shoulder pain begins to interfere with sleep, work, or quality of life, surgery may be recommended. The type of surgery depends on the extent of joint damage, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. At Ortho Illinois, our orthopedic surgeons use advanced minimally invasive and reconstructive techniques to ensure optimal outcomes.

• Shoulder resurfacing: Shoulder resurfacing is a bone-preserving procedure designed for younger, active patients with early or localized arthritis. Instead of replacing the entire joint, only the damaged surface of the head of the upper arm bone is capped with a smooth metal implant, preserving healthy bone and maintaining more natural joint mechanics. This approach can provide effective pain relief and maintain range of motion while delaying the need for a total shoulder replacement.
• Distal clavicle resection: Distal clavicle resection, also known as the Mumford procedure, is performed for arthritis of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint—the small joint at the top of the shoulder. During this minimally invasive surgery, a small portion of the outer collarbone is removed to prevent painful bone-on-bone contact. It reliably relieves pain, restores motion, and allows a quick return to normal activities when AC joint arthritis is the primary source of discomfort.
• Hemiarthroplasty: In cases where only one side of the joint (usually the humeral head) is damaged, a partial shoulder replacement—known as a hemiarthroplasty—may be recommended. The damaged portion of the bone is replaced with a smooth metal implant to restore movement and reduce pain.
• Total shoulder replacement (anatomic shoulder arthroplasty): For patients with severe arthritis involving both sides of the shoulder joint, a total shoulder replacement provides the most predictable pain relief and functional improvement. During this procedure, the damaged ball-and-socket surfaces are replaced with artificial components designed to mimic the joint’s natural movement.
• Reverse shoulder replacement: When arthritis is combined with a torn or nonfunctional rotator cuff, a reverse total shoulder replacement may be performed. This technique reverses the normal ball-and-socket orientation, allowing the deltoid muscle to compensate for a weak rotator cuff. This procedure often provides excellent pain relief and restoration of arm movement.

After surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is essential for a successful recovery. Most patients begin gentle range-of-motion exercises shortly after surgery under the guidance of a physical therapist. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises are introduced to restore stability and function. Full recovery typically occurs over several months, depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual’s overall health.

At Ortho Illinois, our goal is to provide each patient with the highest standard of orthopedic care through personalized treatment plans, advanced surgical expertise, and comprehensive rehabilitation support. Whether your condition can be managed conservatively or requires surgical intervention, our team is committed to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and improved mobility.