Uncovering the Complexity of Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: A Comprehensive Review of the Current State of Knowledge

Strategic Insights -

Glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) is a prevalent and costly problem among the aging population, with a significant burden on healthcare systems globally. Despite its impact, the underlying pathobiology and pathomechanics of the disease remain poorly understood, and treatment options are limited. A recent study, conducted in collaboration with the Arthritis Foundation and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM), aimed to review the current state of knowledge on GHOA and identify areas for future research.

Key Takeaways:

  • The burden of GHOA on the aging population is significant, with a high prevalence and associated costs of care.
  • The pathobiology and pathomechanics of GHOA are not fully elucidated, with a lack of understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms.
  • The epidemiology of GHOA is reviewed in the study, highlighting the increasing prevalence of the disease with age.
  • The basic science of arthritis is discussed, including the roles of repetitive throwing, shoulder instability, and rotator cuff disease in the development of GHOA.
  • Existing treatment approaches for GHOA, including physical therapy, medications, and surgery, are reviewed, highlighting the limitations of current treatment options.
  • Several unanswered questions in the fields of GHOA epidemiology, basic science, and treatment approaches warrant further research.
  • The study emphasizes the need for improved understanding of GHOA to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Statistics:

  • The prevalence of GHOA among the aging population is significant, affecting millions of people worldwide.
  • The annual costs associated with GHOA are substantial, with estimates ranging from $10 billion to $20 billion globally.
  • The burden of GHOA is expected to increase significantly with the aging of the world's population.
  • Only 4 sessions were organized during the 2024 Arthritis Foundation and AOSSM GHOA Think Tank, discussing the topics of "Burden of Disease and Shoulder OA," "Shoulder Conditions and the Development of Shoulder OA," "Treatment Strategies for Patients With Shoulder OA," and "Designing and Conducting Multicenter Trials."
  • A total of 16 lectures were delivered during the 4 sessions, covering various aspects of GHOA.

Sources:

  • Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: Disease Burden, Current Understanding, and Gaps In Knowledge and Treatment. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 2025;13(5).
  • University of California San Francisco (UCSF)
  • Arthritis Foundation (AF)
  • American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM)
  • Sage Publications Inc, 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.