Shoulder arthritis can limit motion, reduce strength, and interfere with daily and athletic activities. While arthritis is often associated with age-related wear, it can also develop after shoulder injuries that disrupt joint stability and cartilage health. At Dr. Roger Pollock’s orthopedic shoulder practice in Paramus, NJ, patients across Bergen County receive focused care for shoulder pain and shoulder disorders only. As a shoulder-only orthopedic surgeon, Roger G. Pollock specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the shoulder joint, including arthritis that develops after injury.

What Is Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint wears down, allowing bone surfaces to rub against one another. This friction leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a gradual loss of range of motion. In the shoulder, arthritis most commonly affects the glenohumeral joint, where the upper arm bone meets the shoulder socket, or the acromioclavicular joint, which connects the collarbone to the shoulder blade.

Causes of Shoulder Arthritis

While natural aging can contribute to cartilage breakdown, shoulder arthritis often develops after injury. Sports-related trauma plays a significant role, especially when the joint has experienced repeated stress or instability. Prior shoulder dislocations, acromioclavicular joint injuries, labral tears, and rotator cuff injuries can all alter normal joint mechanics. Over time, these changes increase wear on the cartilage and raise the risk of arthritis.

Inflammation following injury can also accelerate degeneration. Even when initial symptoms improve, underlying joint damage may continue to progress if not properly addressed.

Risk Factors Linked to Sports and Activity

Athletes and active individuals face unique risks for shoulder arthritis. Contact sports, overhead sports, and activities that involve repetitive shoulder motion place ongoing stress on the joint. A history of shoulder injuries, especially those that were severe or recurrent, increases the likelihood of developing arthritis earlier than expected. Reduced shoulder strength or stability after injury can further concentrate stress on specific areas of the joint.

Symptoms That Signal a Shoulder Problem

Shoulder arthritis often causes deep, aching pain that worsens with activity and improves only partially with rest. Stiffness is common, particularly with overhead motion or rotation. Many patients notice grinding or catching sensations within the joint and a gradual decline in strength. Because these symptoms can overlap with other shoulder disorders, expert evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing Shoulder Arthritis

Dr. Pollock focuses exclusively on shoulder pain and shoulder disorders, allowing for precise evaluation of joint function. Diagnosis begins with a detailed physical examination to assess motion, strength, and stability. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or advanced scans, help confirm cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, or post-injury changes that contribute to arthritis. This shoulder-specific approach ensures that treatment targets the true source of pain.

Treatment Options Focused on the Shoulder

Treatment depends on the severity of arthritis and the patient’s activity level. Early-stage arthritis may respond to non-surgical options such as activity modification, targeted physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory measures. When symptoms persist or limit function, more advanced interventions may be considered. Because Dr. Pollock treats shoulder conditions only, care is tailored to preserving shoulder motion, strength, and long-term joint health.

Specialized Shoulder Care in Bergen County

Shoulder arthritis requires the expertise of a surgeon who understands the complexity of the shoulder joint and its response to injury. Dr. Roger Pollock’s Paramus, NJ practice is dedicated solely to shoulder problems, including arthritis that develops after sports injuries. Patients throughout Bergen County receive focused care designed to restore comfort, movement, and confidence.

If shoulder pain, stiffness, or loss of motion is affecting your activity or quality of life, call (201) 612-9774 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Roger Pollock. Expert shoulder care is available in Paramus and across Bergen County to help you understand your condition and explore appropriate treatment options.