Is Shoulder Arthritis Reversible?

Shoulder arthritis makes daily living difficult due to pain and loss of function. So, it’s normal to wonder if there’s any way to cure the problem. 

Unfortunately, once arthritis causes damage to the cartilage covering the ends of bones, there’s no way to regrow lost tissue. 

However, orthopedic surgeon and shoulder specialist Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD, targets treatment to minimize pain, restore function, and slow joint deterioration. 

In this blog, we’ll describe how arthritis affects the shoulder as well as potential treatment options. Although shoulder arthritis isn’t reversible, you can still get past the pain and stiffness.

Arthritis and its effects on the shoulder

There are five main types of arthritis that affect the shoulder. 

The most common is osteoarthritis. Caused by general wear and tear from daily living, osteoarthritis destroys articular cartilage — the smooth covering over bones where they meet in a joint. 

Posttraumatic arthritis results from an injury that damages the shoulder. It’s also a form of osteoarthritis. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the outer lining of joints, including the shoulders. The immune system malfunctions and damages normal tissue rather than infectious pathogens. 

Untreated rotator cuff tears can contribute to arthritis through the inability to hold the shoulder joint stable — a condition called rotator cuff tear arthropathy. 

Avascular necrosis starts when the blood supply to the humerus (the upper arm bone) becomes interrupted. Without a blood supply, bone tissue begins to die, eventually collapsing and compromising the cartilage at the shoulder. 

Treating shoulder arthritis

Usually, we’ll start with conservative therapies, including: 

• Activity changes and rest from movements that cause pain
• Cold and hot packs for temporary relief
• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and restore mobility

When these options don’t produce satisfactory results, Dr. Bercik moves to more aggressive treatments like:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Prescription-strength medications
• Drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis (if applicable)

It’s only after these therapies fail to produce satisfactory relief that Dr. Bercik may recommend surgery. Arthroscopy can give a detailed look at conditions within your problem shoulder, as well as providing access for special surgical tools that remove loose cartilage, shave bone spurs, or reduce inflammation. 

Only after all other alternatives are exhausted will we recommend surgical replacement of the shoulder joint or some of its components. 

The process starts when you contact the nearest of Dr. Bercik’s three locations. Call or click to book your consultation today. Our friendly staff is happy to answer your questions and schedule your appointment.