The more common knee and hip arthritis often overshadows shoulder arthritis, a serious and debilitating illness that affects the cartilage lining the shoulder joint. People often misinterpret this wear-and-tear process as frozen shoulder, causing pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility and doctors hope to raise awareness about shoulder arthritis, which, while less common, can significantly reduce quality of life, says Dr. Banarji B. H., Senior Consultant of Orthopaedics at Sakra World Hospital in Bengaluru.

The shoulder, which does not bear weight, can also suffer from arthritis, a disorder that affects several joints in the body. Despite this, shoulder arthritis can be similarly severe, with a variety of causes leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Age-related cartilage deterioration frequently leads to osteoarthritis (OA), a form that causes bone-on-bone friction, substantial discomfort, and function loss. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), another form, arises from autoimmune mechanisms that trigger chronic inflammation and progressively harm the shoulder joint. Furthermore, post-traumatic arthritis can develop after previous shoulder injuries, increasing joint degradation over time. Finally, rotator-cuff arthropathy, which is associated with persistent rotator cuff tears, emphasizes the complex nature of shoulder arthritis.  Each of these types emphasizes the importance of recognizing shoulder arthritis as a serious illness that requires prompt attention and treatment. 

Shoulder arthritis symptoms include discomfort, stiffness, grinding sensations, and reduced mobility, which can make regular movements such as lifting arms or reaching overhead problematic. "Patients may experience difficulty elevating their arms or even with simple daily activities," Dr. Banarji says.

According to various estimates, by 2023, the global shoulder arthroplasty market is to reach $1.8 billion, indicating an increase in the prevalence of shoulder arthritis. While specific data for India is scarce, estimations imply that 1.5 to 2 million Indians may be affected by this ailment, with South Asia's total potentially reaching 3 to 4 million. Ageing populations, repetitive manual labour, and increased involvement in overhead sports or high-intensity workouts are driving this surge.

Causes and Risk Factors The primary cause of shoulder arthritis is age-related deterioration. However, repetitive stress from physical labor, sports, trauma, autoimmune illnesses, chronic infections (such as tuberculosis), and a hereditary susceptibility can all contribute.  "While advancing age remains a primary factor, individuals involved in physically demanding activities or those with a family history of arthritis are at higher risk," Dr. Banarji says.

The severity of the problem determines the treatment for shoulder arthritis, offering a variety of options for symptom management and functional restoration. In the early stages, modest treatments like rest, ice, heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain medicines can help alleviate discomfort and inflammation. As the illness worsens, medical interventions become increasingly important, with anti-inflammatory medicines, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy playing critical roles in improving mobility and reducing discomfort. However, in severe cases where non-invasive techniques are insufficient, surgical options such as shoulder replacement surgery may be required.

Dr. Banarji stated, "The goal of shoulder replacement surgery is to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve overall shoulder function." These operations, whether total or reverse arthroplasty, have become safer and more effective as surgical skills and technology have advanced. Each therapy phase emphasizes the importance of proactively addressing shoulder arthritis to improve quality of life and prevent subsequent issues.

Sometimes people ignore shoulder arthritis despite its severity until it reaches an advanced stage. Early intervention is critical for avoiding problems and increasing quality of life. Dr. Banarji emphasizes that arthritis is more than simply pain; it influences how you live your life. Raising awareness is the first step in tackling this sometimes overlooked illness."