Glenohumeral arthritis: Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain, which often increases over a period of time. This can go on for as long as several years. You may have pain at rest, although not always, and movement will usually add to your discomfort. Many patients report pain and interrupted sleep at night.

Loss of motion is also common. This may be caused by osteophytes (bony spurs caused by the bone-on-bone friction), or constriction due to inflammation. Fractures, previous surgery, or weakness in the supporting muscles may also have a negative impact on motion.

Other symptoms can include atrophy (wasting away) of the shoulder muscles through lack of use, inflammation of the affected area, tenderness to the touch and a clicking or crunching sound when you move your shoulder.