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Introduction

Shoulder arthritis is a condition in which the smooth cartilage covering the surfaces of the shoulder joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage deteriorates, movement becomes less smooth, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced function.

Although shoulder arthritis is less common than arthritis of the knee or hip, it can significantly affect daily activities such as reaching overhead, dressing, lifting objects and sleeping comfortably.

At 360 Orthopaedics, we provide evidence-based assessment and treatment for patients with shoulder arthritis, with an emphasis on accurate diagnosis and individualised care.

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What is shoulder arthritis?

The shoulder consists of two main joints:

• Glenohumeral joint – the ball-and-socket joint between the humeral head and the shoulder socket.
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint – the joint between the collarbone and the acromion.

Arthritis may affect either joint, although the glenohumeral joint is typically responsible for deep shoulder pain and stiffness.

As cartilage wears away:

• Bone surfaces become less smooth.
• The joint may become inflamed.
• Bone spurs (osteophytes) may develop.
• Shoulder movement becomes increasingly restricted.

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Types of shoulder arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of shoulder arthritis.

It develops gradually as cartilage wears down over time and is more common with increasing age.

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Post-traumatic arthritis

Previous fractures, dislocations or significant shoulder injuries may increase the risk of developing arthritis later in life.

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Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and progressive joint damage.

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Rotator cuff arthropathy

Long-standing, large rotator cuff tears can alter the mechanics of the shoulder, eventually leading to a distinct pattern of arthritis known as rotator cuff arthropathy.

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Symptoms of shoulder arthritis

Common symptoms include:

• Deep aching shoulder pain
• Pain during movement
• Progressive stiffness
• Difficulty reaching overhead
• Difficulty reaching behind the back
• Grinding or clicking sensations
• Night pain
• Reduced shoulder function

Symptoms often develop gradually over months or years.

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What activities become difficult?

Patients commonly report difficulty with:

• Combing or washing hair
• Fastening a bra
• Reaching overhead cupboards
• Lifting groceries
• Putting on a jacket
• Playing golf or tennis
• Sleeping on the affected shoulder

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Does shoulder arthritis always worsen?

Not necessarily.

Many people experience slow progression over several years, while others remain relatively stable for long periods.

Symptoms may fluctuate depending on activity levels and inflammation.

Regular assessment allows treatment to be adjusted according to changing symptoms.

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How is shoulder arthritis diagnosed?

Medical history

Your specialist will discuss:

• The location of your pain
• Duration of symptoms
• Previous shoulder injuries
• Activities that worsen symptoms
• Impact on work, sport and daily life

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Physical examination

The examination assesses:

• Range of movement
• Shoulder strength
• Joint tenderness
• Crepitus (grating sensation)
• Rotator cuff function

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Imaging

X-rays

X-rays are the primary imaging investigation for shoulder arthritis.

They may show:

• Narrowing of the joint space
• Bone spurs
• Changes in bone shape
• Joint degeneration

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Musculoskeletal ultrasound

Ultrasound is useful for assessing the rotator cuff tendons, particularly if a tear is suspected alongside arthritis.

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MRI

MRI may be recommended if additional information about the cartilage, rotator cuff or surrounding soft tissues is required.

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Treatment

Treatment depends on:

• Severity of arthritis
• Symptoms
• Age
• Activity level
• Functional goals

Many patients improve with non-surgical management.

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Non-surgical treatment

Options may include:

• Education
• Activity modification
• Physiotherapy
• Pain-relieving medication where appropriate
• Image-guided injections in selected patients

Treatment aims to reduce pain, improve function and maintain mobility.

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Surgical treatment

Surgery may be considered when:

• Pain remains severe despite appropriate conservative treatment
• Shoulder function is significantly limited
• Arthritis substantially affects quality of life

Depending on the underlying problem, surgical options may include:

• Arthroscopic procedures for selected patients
• Shoulder replacement surgery
• Reverse shoulder replacement for selected patients with rotator cuff arthropathy

The choice of procedure depends on the pattern of arthritis, the condition of the rotator cuff and your individual goals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is shoulder arthritis the same as frozen shoulder?

No.

Shoulder arthritis involves wear of the joint cartilage.

Frozen shoulder is caused by inflammation and tightening of the shoulder capsule.

Although both conditions can cause stiffness, they are different disorders with different treatments.

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Can arthritis be cured?

There is currently no cure for arthritis.

However, many patients achieve good symptom control and maintain an active lifestyle with appropriate treatment.

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Do all patients eventually need a shoulder replacement?

No.

Many patients manage well with conservative treatment for many years.

Shoulder replacement is considered only when symptoms become severe and significantly affect quality of life.

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Is exercise still beneficial?

Yes.

Appropriate exercises help maintain movement, strength and shoulder function.

Your exercise programme should be tailored to your symptoms and stage of arthritis.

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When should I see a shoulder specialist?

You should consider specialist assessment if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain
• Increasing stiffness
• Night pain
• Difficulty lifting the arm
• Reduced shoulder function
• Symptoms affecting work, sport or daily activities

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Why choose 360 Orthopaedics?

At 360 Orthopaedics, we believe treatment begins with understanding the cause of your symptoms rather than simply treating an X-ray.

Our approach combines:

• Fellowship-trained expertise in shoulder surgery
• Evidence-based treatment recommendations
• Comprehensive clinical assessment
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound where appropriate
• Individualised treatment plans designed around your lifestyle and goals

We work with patients to optimise shoulder function while considering both non-surgical and surgical options when appropriate.

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Related pages

• Shoulder Pain – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
• Rotator Cuff Tear
• Frozen Shoulder
• Shoulder Pain at Night
• Shoulder Replacement

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Concerned about shoulder arthritis?

Persistent shoulder pain and stiffness should not be accepted as an inevitable part of ageing.

An accurate diagnosis can help identify the cause of your symptoms and guide the most appropriate treatment.

Contact 360 Orthopaedics to arrange a consultation and discuss the treatment options best suited to your condition.

For a full overview of shoulder conditions, visit Shoulder Specialist Singapore

Dr Puah is regularly invited to teach shoulder surgery internationally

Specialist Care for Shoulder Pain in Singapore

Dr Puah is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries. He provides personalised care tailored to each patient’s condition and activity level.

Consultations are available at Mount Elizabeth Novena.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain that is affecting your daily life or sports, early assessment can help guide appropriate treatment.

Book a consultation or contact the clinic to discuss your condition.

Why Choose Dr Puah Ken Lee

• Specialist in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries
• Fellowship-trained in advanced arthroscopic techniques
• Focus on evidence-based, patient-specific treatment
• Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena

Book a Consultation

Book a consultation or contact the clinic via WhatsApp to get started

Book a consultation at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena

Shoulder conditions are common but treatable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and prevent long-term problems.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients with persistent shoulder symptoms are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation.