Question 1

What causes shoulder arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Shoulder arthritis develops when the smooth cartilage covering the joint wears down. This can occur gradually with age, after previous injuries or surgery, or as a result of longstanding rotator cuff disease.

Question 2

Can shoulder arthritis be treated without surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many patients can manage their symptoms with activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and maintaining shoulder motion and strength. Cortisone injections are a mainstay of treatment and can work very well, often providing prolonged relief and allowing patients to remain active without surgery.

Question 3

Do injections help shoulder arthritis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cortisone injections are very often helpful for shoulder arthritis. They are given directly into the shoulder joint, usually begin working within a few days, and often provide relief for approximately one to three months.

Question 4

How do I know when my shoulder arthritis is bad enough for a replacement?

Accepted Answer

Shoulder replacement is generally considered when arthritis causes persistent pain and loss of function that significantly affects daily activities despite appropriate conservative treatment. After living with the symptoms for a period of time, most patients ultimately know when they are ready to consider replacement.

Question 5

What is the difference between an anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement?

Accepted Answer

An anatomic shoulder replacement recreates the shoulder's normal anatomy and relies on a functioning rotator cuff. In a reverse shoulder replacement, the ball and socket are reversed: the ball is placed on the socket side and the socket is placed on the arm side.

Question 6

How long does a shoulder replacement typically last?

Accepted Answer

Shoulder replacements are very durable. Roughly 80% or more are still functioning at 20 years, with many lasting significantly longer.

Shoulder Arthritis