Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition often affecting multiple joints. Its cause is unknown but it is thought to be an autoimmune condition.

Symptoms vary according to duration, severity and treatment of the overall condition.

In the shoulder the initial presentation may be with pain in particular at night and progressive stiffness. If untreated the chronic inflammation can result in arthritis of the shoulder in association with inflammation of soft tissue such as the lining of the joint and the rotator cuff. This will often result in pain and stiffness due to joint damage (arthritis). with or without rotator cuff damage.

Diagnosis is based on history, and clinical examination backed up by imaging such as x-rays and MRI scans and assessment of blood parameters such as rheumatoid factor and anti-ccp antibodies.

The condition may be progressive. Some individuals will develop multiple inflamed joints as well as other systemic features.

Treatment is primarily by modulating the bodies’ immune response and treating the inflammatory symptoms with medication. Surgery may be indicated when joint destruction has occurred requiring joint replacement.