Which is part of the diagnostic criteria for glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis?

Which is part of the diagnostic criteria for glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis?

• A. Shoulder pain >3 months
• B. Instability of the joint
• C. Localized pain to the AC joint
• D. Normal ROM

Answer: (A)

Chronic, long-lasting shoulder pain is the key feature used to identify glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis. When pain persists for more than three months, it implies a degenerative process within the joint rather than an acute or non-articular issue. In OA of the shoulder, you’d expect mechanical-type pain that worsens with use and activities, and physical exam often reveals reduced range of motion and possible crepitus, with imaging showing degenerative changes like joint-space narrowing and osteophytes. Instability points toward ligamentous laxity or a prior dislocation, not osteoarthritis. Localized pain at the AC joint suggests AC joint pathology, not the glenohumeral joint. Normal range of motion would be unusual in established GH joint OA, which typically limits motion due to pain and stiffness. Therefore, persistent shoulder pain for more than three months is the best fit.

Chronic, long-lasting shoulder pain is the key feature used to identify glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis. When pain persists for more than three months, it implies a degenerative process within the joint rather than an acute or non-articular issue. In OA of the shoulder, you’d expect mechanical-type pain that worsens with use and activities, and physical exam often reveals reduced range of motion and possible crepitus, with imaging showing degenerative changes like joint-space narrowing and osteophytes.

Instability points toward ligamentous laxity or a prior dislocation, not osteoarthritis. Localized pain at the AC joint suggests AC joint pathology, not the glenohumeral joint. Normal range of motion would be unusual in established GH joint OA, which typically limits motion due to pain and stiffness. Therefore, persistent shoulder pain for more than three months is the best fit.