Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Shoulder Osteoarthritis: Non-Surgical Options in Palm Beach

Shoulder osteoarthritis (glenohumeral OA) involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. While less common than knee or hip OA, shoulder arthritis can significantly limit overhead function, sleep quality, and daily activities.

For appropriately selected patients, image-guided orthobiologic treatment may help manage shoulder OA symptoms and improve function without surgery. Make an appointment at Palm Beach Regenerative today.

What Is Shoulder Osteoarthritis?

The glenohumeral joint, where the upper arm bone (humerus) meets the shoulder socket (glenoid), relies on smooth cartilage surfaces for pain-free movement. When this cartilage degenerates, bone-on-bone friction causes pain, inflammation, and progressive stiffness.

Signs and Symptoms

• Deep, aching pain within the shoulder joint
• Pain worsening with overhead activity or reaching
• Morning stiffness easing with movement
• Crackling or grinding with shoulder rotation
• Reduced range of motion, especially internal rotation
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Age-related cartilage degeneration
• Prior shoulder injuries, dislocations, or surgeries
• Rotator cuff tear arthropathy (arthritis secondary to a large rotator cuff tear)
• Repetitive overhead sport or occupation
• Inflammatory arthritis affecting the shoulder

How It Is Diagnosed

X-rays can show joint space narrowing and bone spurs. MRI provides a more complete picture of cartilage quality, rotator cuff integrity, and soft tissue involvement.

Dr. Ghattas reviews your imaging and clinical presentation to determine the stage of arthritis and appropriate treatment options.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Physical therapy: Shoulder mobility and strength exercises
• NSAIDs and activity modification
• Steroid injections for temporary pain relief
• Total shoulder replacement or reverse shoulder replacement: For advanced-stage disease

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

For patients with mild to moderate shoulder osteoarthritis and preserved joint space, image-guided orthobiologic treatment targeting the glenohumeral joint may help reduce inflammation and support joint health.

Dr. Ghattas uses real-time ultrasound guidance to precisely deliver concentrated platelet or bone marrow preparations into the shoulder joint. These treatments do not regenerate cartilage but may help manage the inflammatory environment and improve function.

Patients with severe bone-on-bone shoulder arthritis may be better served by surgical consultation. Contact us to schedule your visit today.

The BioMod Advantage: At Palm Beach Regenerative, treatment does not end with a single injection. Through our BioMod Lab, Dr. Ghattas may combine your orthobiologic procedure with MLS Robotic Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation and support tissue recovery, alongside customized Xymogen supplement protocols designed to optimize your body's healing environment. This integrated, concierge approach is what sets Palm Beach Regenerative apart from a standard injection clinic.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.