​💪 Shoulder Pain Limiting Your Movement?

If reaching overhead, sleeping on your side, or lifting objects causes pain or stiffness, you may be dealing with shoulder arthritis. This common condition can gradually erode your shoulder joint’s function—but with the right care, relief is possible. At Atlanta Bone & Joint Specialists, we provide customized treatments from early arthritis management to advanced shoulder replacement surgery.

🔎 What Is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis happens when the smooth cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. The two main joints that can be affected are:

• Glenohumeral joint (ball-and-socket)
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint (top of the shoulder)

As arthritis progresses, bone may rub against bone, limiting movement and causing discomfort during daily activities.

🧬 Types of Shoulder Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Age-related “wear and tear” on the joint cartilage
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease attacking the joint lining
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Occurs after fractures, dislocations, or rotator cuff tears
• Rotator Cuff Arthropathy: A combination of arthritis and large, chronic rotator cuff tears

⚠️ Common Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

• Deep, aching pain in the shoulder joint
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Pain with overhead activities or behind-the-back movements
• Crunching, grinding, or clicking sounds
• Weakness in the arm or difficulty lifting objects
• Pain at night or while trying to sleep on the affected side

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to consult an orthopedic shoulder specialist.

🩺 How Is Shoulder Arthritis Diagnosed?

Our team starts with a comprehensive evaluation, including:

• Detailed history of your pain and limitations
• Physical exam to assess motion, strength, and shoulder mechanics
• X-rays to evaluate joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or damage
• MRI (if needed) to assess soft tissue and rotator cuff involvement

🛠️ Shoulder Arthritis Treatment Options

🧍 Non-Surgical Care:

• Physical therapy to maintain mobility and strength
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Cortisone (steroid) injections
• Activity modification
• Ice, heat, and supportive braces or slings

🔧 Surgical Options:

• Total Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic) – for patients with intact rotator cuff
• Reverse Shoulder Replacement – ideal when rotator cuff is torn or non-functional
• Shoulder arthroscopy – for limited damage or early-stage arthritis
• Outpatient shoulder replacement – get home the same day, with modern recovery protocols

Our surgeons perform advanced shoulder replacement surgery, including reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, to restore function and reduce pain.

⭐ Why Choose Atlanta Bone & Joint Specialists?

• 🏥 Board-certified orthopedic surgeons with shoulder fellowship training
• ✅ Experts in total and reverse shoulder replacements
• ​​🕒 Same-day appointments available
• 🚀 Outpatient surgery options for faster recovery
• 📍 Convenient locations in Decatur, Snellville, and Loganville

We offer expert care with a small-practice feel and big-practice expertise.

📞 Schedule Your Appointment Today​

Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from reaching, lifting, or sleeping comfortably. Let the orthopedic team at Atlanta Bone & Joint Specialists evaluate your shoulder and create a treatment plan that works for you.
📞 Call (404) 298-3730 or request an appointment online