Common causes may include: 

• Age-related cartilage wear 

• Prior shoulder injury 

• Previous shoulder dislocation 

• Rotator cuff problems 

• Inflammatory arthritis 

• Post-traumatic arthritis after fracture or surgery 

• Repetitive overhead activity 

Symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain 

• Stiffness or loss of motion 

• Sense of grinding, clicking, or catching 

• Pain with reaching or lifting 

• Difficulty sleeping, in particular when lying on the affected shoulder 

• Weakness or fatigue with arm use 

• Trouble reaching behind the back or overhead 

Treatment may include: 

• Rest 

• Ice or heat for symptom relief 

• Activity modification 

• Physical therapy to maintain motion and strengthen supporting muscles 

• Anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate 

• Corticosteroid injections in select cases 

• Lifestyle changes to reduce painful repetitive movements 

Surgical Treatment 

Surgery may be recommended depending on the injury, symptoms, activity level, and response to non-surgical care. For arthritis affecting the acromioclavicular joint, surgical options may include: 

• Removing a small portion of the collarbone to reduce painful bone contact with overhead activities. This can be performed through an arthroscope (small camera) or through a small open incision.  

For arthritis affecting the main shoulder (glenohumeral) ointment, surgical options may include: 

• Shoulder arthroscopy: May be used in select cases to remove loose tissue or treat mechanical symptoms. 

• Partial shoulder replacement: Replaces the damaged ball (humeral head)  

• Total shoulder replacement: Replaces the damaged ball and socket surfaces with implants. This is includes an anatomic total shoulder replacement which maintains the anatomy of the shoulder, or a reverse shoulder replacement which compensates for any associated rotator cuff problems. If indicated for a replacement, your provider will discuss which option is best for you.