Shoulder arthritis can be one of the most frustrating and limiting issues to deal with, especially when it affects your sleep, movement and everyday activities. One of the most common causes of long-term discomfort in the shoulder joint is arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease. At our Surrey clinic, we regularly see patients who are living with pain, stiffness or reduced range of motion due to arthritis inside the shoulder. This condition can develop slowly over time or after previous injury and can have a significant impact on your quality of life if not diagnosed and managed properly. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, early understanding and intervention can make a big difference.
What Is Shoulder Arthritis?
Arthritis in the shoulder occurs when the cartilage that normally cushions the joint wears away. Cartilage allows the surfaces of the bones to glide smoothly against each other. As it breaks down, the joint becomes rough, inflamed and eventually bone begins to rub directly against bone. This leads to pain, swelling and gradual restriction in movement.
The joint may also develop small bony spurs which can cause a creaking sensation when the shoulder is moved. Unlike more acute causes of pain in the shoulder blade or pain between shoulder blades, arthritis is a chronic condition that often progresses over years, sometimes decades.There are different forms of arthritis that can affect the shoulder.
Primary osteoarthritis is the most common and tends to occur due to age-related wear and tear. This risk increases in people who play repetitive sports or carry out shoulder-intensive activities such as swimming or manual work. Other causes include previous trauma, such as fractures or dislocations, which can change the shape of the joint and lead to uneven wear. In some cases, autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may be responsible. These diseases cause the immune system to attack healthy tissue inside the joint, leading to inflammation and damage.
Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis
The typical symptoms of shoulder arthritis include pain, stiffness and swelling. These tend to worsen over time and may vary depending on the extent of joint damage. Pain is often felt deep inside the joint and can extend to the neck, upper arm or back, leading patients to describe it as neck and shoulder pain or even describe it as pain in the upper arm between elbow and shoulder. Some people notice a clicking or grinding noise when moving the arm, and others find it difficult to reach overhead or behind the back. In advanced cases, shoulder movement can become significantly restricted, affecting even basic tasks like getting dressed or lifting objects.
Many people search for answers to left shoulder pain or right shoulder pain and are surprised to learn that arthritis can be present in just one joint or affect both sides at different stages. In women, especially those who are post-menopausal, the condition can appear more rapidly and may be linked to hormonal or lifestyle changes.
How Shoulder Arthritis Is Diagnosed
If you are dealing with persistent shoulder discomfort and think it may be more than just muscle strain or overuse, it is important to get a proper diagnosis. Your consultant will begin by asking about your symptoms, lifestyle and any history of injury. A detailed physical examination will follow, where they will assess your range of motion, joint tenderness and signs of inflammation. While some types of shoulder pain can be identified clinically, arthritis is best confirmed with imaging.
An X-ray is the most common tool used to assess the joint space and the condition of the cartilage. It can reveal narrowing of the joint, formation of bone spurs and loss of alignment. In more complex cases or where soft tissue involvement is suspected, further imaging such as MRI or ultrasound may be recommended to assess the tendons and ligaments around the joint.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Arthritis
Before considering surgery, there are several effective non-surgical treatments that can help relieve pain inside the shoulder and improve function. In the early stages, physiotherapy is often recommended to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness. Modifying certain activities and using oral painkillers or anti-inflammatories can also help in managing symptoms.
Steroid injections are frequently used to control inflammation. These injections contain hydrocortisone, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, and are delivered directly into the joint space. Relief is often noticeable within a few days, although results can vary depending on the extent of joint damage.
Another option that is growing in popularity is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. This involves drawing a small amount of your own blood, processing it to concentrate the healing platelets, and injecting this solution into the joint. PRP is particularly appealing to patients looking for natural, regenerative alternatives. It is often used when standard conservative treatments are no longer effective, but surgery is not yet required. This can be especially beneficial in patients who want to delay shoulder replacement or reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
Surgical Options When Conservative Measures Fail
In cases where joint damage is advanced and symptoms are significantly impacting daily life, your consultant may recommend surgery. A common procedure for severe arthritis is shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty. This involves replacing the damaged surfaces of the joint with artificial components made of metal and plastic. There are different types of implants available, and the best option will depend on your anatomy, activity level and overall health.
Surgery is usually considered when patients have exhausted non-surgical treatments and are still experiencing pain that interferes with sleep, movement and independence. While any surgical procedure carries risks, shoulder replacement has shown excellent outcomes in relieving pain and restoring range of motion in carefully selected patients. Post-operative rehabilitation is a key part of recovery and plays a significant role in helping you regain strength and flexibility.
When to Seek Help for Shoulder Pain
Many patients wait too long before seeking advice for persistent shoulder pain, often assuming it is due to posture, stress or a minor injury. If your symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, are interfering with your daily life, or if you have already tried rest and painkillers without improvement, it is time to consult a specialist. Whether your discomfort presents as shoulder pain, or you simply feel that your shoulder is not moving the way it used to, getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward recovery.
At our orthopaedic clinic in Surrey, we offer expert consultations, advanced imaging and a full range of treatments for patients experiencing shoulder arthritis or related conditions. We take a personalised approach to care, aiming to preserve mobility, reduce pain and delay the need for invasive treatment wherever possible.
Book a consultation with our shoulder specialist today and take the first step toward long-term relief. Whether you are managing early arthritis or considering your options after failed treatments, we are here to help you move more freely and live with less pain.
