Shoulder osteoarthritis in the young patient: An overview of epidemiology and current arthroplasty options

Osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint is a common source of pain in the shoulder joint, with current reports of its incidence being 16%–20% in adults over 65 years old. In the young patient, however, glenohumeral osteoarthritis is rare but difficult to address. Though shoulder arthroplasty has been steadily increasing in use over the last 20 years, this may not be the best option in young patients due to their increased functional demands and implant longevity. Nonoperative interventions should be the first-line treatment. Physical therapy, home exercise programs, medications, and injections should be exhausted before exploring surgical options. Once surgical options are being explored, the options can range from arthroscopic management, hemiarthroplasty, anatomic total shoulder, reverse total shoulder, and arthrodesis. Patient understanding of the options, as well as their benefits and pitfalls are essential for appropriate care of osteoarthritis in the young patient.