Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis
What Is Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis?
Glenohumeral osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition in which the cartilage covering the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint progressively wears away. As this cartilage deteriorates, the bones begin to rub directly against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and limited motion. This is the most common type of arthritis affecting the shoulder’s ball-and-socket joint.
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Causes and Risk Factors
- Natural aging and “wear and tear” over time
- Previous shoulder injury or fracture
- History of rotator cuff tear or shoulder instability
- Repetitive overhead activity or heavy labor
- Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Genetic predisposition
Symptoms
- Gradual onset of deep shoulder pain, especially during activity
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Difficulty with overhead tasks, reaching behind the back, or lifting
- Shoulder crepitus (grinding or clicking sounds with movement)
- Pain at night, often disturbing sleep
- Muscle weakness around the shoulder
Diagnosis
- Physical exam assessing motion, tenderness, and joint mechanics
- X-rays reveal:
- Joint space narrowing
- Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Sclerosis or cyst formation
- MRI or CT scan may be used for detailed surgical planning or evaluation of surrounding soft tissues
- Diagnostic joint injection may confirm that the source of pain is within the glenohumeral joint
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Activity modification to reduce pain-inducing motion
- NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy to:
- Maintain joint mobility
- Improve shoulder mechanics and reduce compensatory strain
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief
- Viscosupplementation (in select cases) to lubricate the joint
Surgical Treatment
- Considered when symptoms are severe or unresponsive to conservative care
- Options include:
- Total shoulder replacement (anatomic or reverse) for advanced arthritis
- Hemiarthroplasty (replacement of only the humeral head)
- Arthroscopic debridement in early-stage arthritis
Recovery Outlook
- With non-surgical care, symptoms can often be managed for months or years
- After surgery:
- Hospital stay is usually 1–2 days
- Shoulder sling for 2–4 weeks
- Physical therapy begins within the first week
- Return to daily activities typically within 3–4 months
- Full recovery and return to higher-level function by 6–9 months
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
The joint specialists at Kerlan Jobe Institute are leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder arthritis. Whether through advanced surgical options or customized non-operative plans, our team provides personalized care to restore function and quality of life.
Getting You Back in Motion
Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
Patient Testimonials
highly skilled surgeon
“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Kvitne
“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.