ARTHRITIS OF THE SHOULDER

Arthritis of the shoulder occurs as the cartilage which acts as a cushion between the bones in your shoulder joint breaks down.  This leads to pain and stiffness.

The diagnosis is based on physical exam and x-ray findings. Depending on the exact nature and severity of your disease, treatment may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, injections or surgery.  Surgery may involve arthroscopic procedures performed with cameras and tools inserted through small incisions, or it may consist of a shoulder replacement.

The shoulder is a ball and socket type joint.  In some cases a hemi-arthroplasty, where only the ball part of the joint is replaced with a metal implant, is sufficient.  In other cases, a total shoulder replacement, where both the ball and socket are replaced with metal and plastic implants, is required.

The images below have been reprinted with permission from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 

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