Shoulder joint involvement is common in
patients with
rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the clinical manifestations are nonspecific.
Shoulder joint destruction in the
patients with RA gradually occurs, resulting in decreased function. In rheumatoid
shoulder, loss of
cartilage and soft
tissue degeneration coexists with
pain and reduced
range of motion. To avoid the
joint destruction, early
detection of
inflammation in the
shoulder joints is necessary. Therefore,
shoulder involvement should be checked routinely and detected early. Radiograph of the rheumatoid
shoulder provides essential guidance for
treatment decisions. The development of
glenohumeral joint space narrowing on radiograph is a turning point that indicates a
risk of rapid
joint destruction. Ultrasound and
magnetic resonance imaging are useful for assessing the lesions and guiding the
treatment strategy. The
goals of
treatment in rheumatoid
shoulder are to relieve
pain and to restore function. This is accomplished by early
detection, proper medication, intervention,
rehabilitation, and operation.