Treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis introduction Degenerative changes of the glenohumeral (GH) joint are found in up to 17% of patients with shoulder pain, a patient group that has tripled in the last 40 years.
Treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis introduction Degenerative changes of the glenohumeral (GH) joint are found in up to 17% of patients with shoulder pain, a patient group that has tripled in the last 40 years. The glenohumeral joint is the third most common large joint affected, following the knee and hip. It will be a condition that will present in any sports medicine clinic and providers should be comfortable with the management options and state of the evidence with the options.
Pain and functional impairment can affect physical as well as psychological well-being, causing limitations in occupational and leisure activities in younger individuals and threatening physical independence in the elderly. It is not uncommon for the osteoarthritis to advance and the individual is unable to lift their arm less than ninety degrees. Although the true incidence and prevalence of glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis cannot be estimated currently, it is important to recognize it is common.
In 1974, Neer described primary glenohumeral OA as a limitation in shoulder movement, loss of joint space, the presence of humeral head osteophytes, and the absence of rotator cuff tear. It remains important to differentiate OA from rotator cuff arthropathy. Pain from OA is often localized posteriorly and deep within the joint.
It is typically associated with night pain, stiffness, and functional limitations. Patients with a history of trauma to the shoulder or systemic inflammatory disease may have an earlier onset of disease. Physical examination should exclude etiologies of pain outside the shoulder and attempt to identify other pathology within the shoulder, such as tendinosis and bursitis.
Neck pain, pain radiating down the arm, and pain with provocative maneuvers such as Spurling’s test suggest a cervical source of pain. A thorough neck and neurovascular examination should always be performed. Pain at the greater tuberosity, weakness, or lag signs suggest rotator cuff disease.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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