Degenerative conditions of the shoulder

Cartilage is the thin tissue that covers bone surfaces providing smooth, friction free movement. Wear and tear, injury or repetitive overhead movements like tennis can cause the cartilage in your shoulder to wear down (shoulder arthritis).

Symptoms of degenerative conditions of the shoulder include:

Pain, sometimes very severe
Stiffness
Swelling around the joint
Tenderness
Limited range of motion
A feeling of catching or grinding in the joint

Taking over the counter pain killers like ibuprofen or paracetamol as well as resting and icing your shoulder may relieve your symptoms. Sometimes physiotherapy is needed to help you regain your range of motion and promote healing.

Steroid injections may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases surgery may be recommended.

Related tests and scans

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a procedure in which a miniature telescope is inserted through a 2cm incision over a joint, for example the hip, knee, ankle or shoulder.

CT scan (or CAT scan)

A CT scan is used to produce internal cross-sectional images of the body. The images aid the detection of disease and injury, allowing effective treatment planning.

MRI scan

An MRI is a type of scan that creates detailed images of the inside of your body. Your doctor or healthcare professional has recommended an MRI scan because it is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

X-ray

An X-ray machine produces images of the inside of the body. It is effective in assessing bones and other dense structures within the body.

Related treatments and procedures

Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to repair or replace a damaged or diseased joint.

Cartilage reconstruction

Cartilage is the thin tissue that covers bone surfaces providing smooth, friction free movement.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy that is administered in a special heated pool. The warm water helps relieve pain and relax the body, so increasing ease of movement.

Shoulder Manipulation

Shoulder manipulation is a treatment for frozen shoulder, that consists of stretching and releasing the shoulder capsule.

Shoulder Stabilisation

If you have a dislocated shoulder, this operation repairs the lining of the damaged shoulder joint to make it stable again.

Shoulder decompression - keyhole surgery

Shoulder decompression (or subacromial depression) is an operation to cleaning and repair damaged tendons around the upper arm and shoulder area.

Shoulder surgery (rotator cuff repair)

The rotator cuff is formed of four tendons and the adjacent muscles that attach your arm to the top of your shoulder blade, which gives the shoulder stability and control. Tears to the rotator cuff tendon can occur for many reasons including acute injury, overuse or normal age-related changes.