Osteoarthritis is caused by degeneration of the underlying cartilage and bone.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis varies and depends on the how severely the joint is affected. The most common symptoms are pain, stiffness and limited range of movement. Symptoms are often more severe in the morning or after a period of rest. In In the final stages of OA when the cartilage is worn out bone rubs against bone causing severe pain and stiffness. Non-operative treatment consists of physiotherapy and pain medication. Sometimes cortisone injections provide short-term relief. Keyhole surgery allows cleaning of the joint but does not treat the underlying cause. It is therefore limited to the young patient as a very temporary measure. Ultimately with endstage disease the only option is a shoulder replacement.