Within each joint, protective cartilage covers the ends of the bones to provide a smooth surface for painless joint motion. However, the cartilage itself is susceptible to injury. Once injured, the damaged cartilage can cause pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint, as well as physical limitations. Cartilage has no blood supply, therefore, it cannot heal on its own. A simple crack or fissure will continue to progress until the cartilage wears down completely, resulting in arthritis with pain, stiffness, and other joint symptoms.
Arthroscopic view of normal shoulder cartilage
Arthroscopic view of advanced cartilage damage on the humerus
Frequent Signs and Symptoms
- Pain and swelling, especially following activity
- Feeling of something moving in the joint
- The joint “gives way;” catching, locking
- “Crackling” sensation (crepitus) occurs with motion
- Often occurs with an injury that causes damage to other structures, such as tendons or ligaments
- Stiffness, especially following inactivity
Etiology (Causes)
- A traumatic injury, such as a fall or blow to the shoulder
- Repetitive motion and overuse, such as exercising without moderation.
Compressive, shearing, or rotational force to the shoulder