Glenohumeral Shoulder Joint Arthritis

Glenohumeral (shoulder) arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage covering the ends of the bones at the shoulder joint between the glenoid (socket of the shoulder joint) and the humeral head (ball of the shoulder joint in the upper arm) wears out. This cartilage wears down from excessive joint loading over time in patients genetically susceptible to arthritis or following injury. Shoulder pain and limitations occur as the worn bony ends of the joint grind together, deform, and cause physical limitations and inflammation.