Shoulder arthrosis

This degenerative disease entails a loss of the cartilage covering joint surfaces. Depending on the area in which this loss occurs, it may be:

• Glenohumeral osteoarthritis: loss of cartilage between the humeral head and the glenoid cavity of the shoulder blade, resulting in loss of joint space and hardening of the bone surfaces with the formation of osteophytes. In the early stages of osteoarthritis, conservative treatments (painkillers, physiotherapy, etc.) are recommended. In more advanced cases, where the patient is experiencing pain and limited functionality, or where conservative treatment has not worked, shoulder arthroplasty may be performed, which involves replacing the affected area with a prosthesis. The specialist will choose the prosthesis model based on the patient and the specific condition. The results of shoulder replacements are usually satisfactory: pain is eliminated and the patient regains mobility.
• Osteoarthritis of the acromioclavicular joint: caused by trauma or as a degenerative process, this involves the loss of cartilage between the acromion and the tip of the collarbone. It causes significant pain in the upper shoulder area. Conservative treatment includes rest, medication, and physiotherapy. If symptoms persist, arthroscopy may be performed to resect the distal end.