Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. At Iowa Ortho, our specialists provide personalized care to relieve symptoms and restore function so you can stay active.
What is shoulder arthritis?
Arthritis in the shoulder develops when cartilage between the bones breaks down, causing friction, inflammation, and joint damage. While it can result from normal wear and tear, it may also be linked to injury, overuse, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Common symptoms of shoulder arthritis
- Dull, aching shoulder pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness and loss of motion, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back
- Grinding, clicking, or popping in the joint
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
If left untreated, shoulder arthritis can severely impact daily activities like dressing, lifting, or even sleeping comfortably.
Diagnosis at Iowa Ortho
Our orthopedic team uses a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical exam, and imaging such as X-rays or MRI, to determine the extent of joint damage.
Treatment options for shoulder arthritis
We take a stepwise approach to care, beginning with conservative treatments before considering surgery. Options may include:
Non-surgical care
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
- Activity modifications and lifestyle adjustments
Surgical care
- Arthroscopy to clean the joint and smooth damaged cartilage
- Shoulder replacement surgery for advanced arthritis, replacing damaged surfaces with artificial components to restore function
Why choose Iowa Ortho?
Our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and care team have extensive experience treating shoulder arthritis. Whether you need conservative care or surgical treatment, we’re committed to helping you get back to an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online with a shoulder specialist.