Shoulder Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative condition affecting the glenohumeral (ball-and-socket) joint or the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. As cartilage wears away, bone-on-bone contact causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. The shoulder's wide range of motion makes arthritis here particularly impactful on daily activities.
Prevalence
Shoulder arthritis affects approximately 20% of people over age 65. Over 50,000 shoulder replacement surgeries are performed annually in the United States.
Who It Affects
Most common in adults over 50. Risk factors include previous shoulder injuries, rotator cuff tears, genetics, repetitive overhead activities, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Regenerative therapies are investigational and not FDA-approved to treat this condition.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Traditional Treatment Options
Anti-inflammatory Medications
NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Limitations: Symptom management only. Long-term use carries health risks.
Physical Therapy
Exercises to maintain mobility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and reduce stiffness.
Limitations: Cannot restore lost cartilage. Helps manage but doesn't cure arthritis.
Corticosteroid Injections
Steroid injections into the joint for temporary pain relief.
Limitations: Effects typically last weeks to months. Repeated injections may weaken tissues.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Total or reverse shoulder arthroplasty to replace damaged joint surfaces.
Limitations: Major surgery with significant recovery (3-6 months). Prosthetics have limited lifespan.
Regenerative Medicine Approach
How Regenerative Therapy May Help
Regenerative medicine for shoulder arthritis explores whether biologics may support the joint environment and help modulate inflammation. These minimally invasive approaches aim to deliver growth factors and regenerative signals directly to the affected joint.
Potential Benefits Being Studied:
- May help modulate inflammatory processes in the joint
- Contains growth factors that support tissue health
- Minimally invasive injection procedure
- May support joint comfort and function
- An option to explore before major surgery
- Outpatient procedure with minimal downtime
Biologics Used:
Umbilical cord tissue-derived stem cells (hUCT-MSCs)
Exosomes with regenerative growth factors
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the treatment administered?
Biologics are typically injected directly into the shoulder joint using ultrasound guidance for precise placement. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and takes about 30 minutes.
Can I avoid shoulder replacement with this treatment?
There is no guarantee. Some patients explore regenerative options before considering surgery, but these therapies are not proven to prevent the need for joint replacement. Discuss all options with your orthopedic surgeon.
What is the recovery like?
Most patients can resume normal activities within 24-48 hours. Some temporary soreness is common. Your provider will give specific post-procedure instructions.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss shoulder arthritis and learn if regenerative medicine may be right for you.
Important Disclaimer
Regenerative therapies for shoulder arthritis are investigational and not FDA-approved. Results vary by individual. Consult with an orthopedic specialist for personalized recommendations.