One of the most common symptoms of shoulder arthritis is persistent pain in the shoulder joint. The pain may become worse when you move your arm, lift objects, reach overhead, or perform everyday activities. Some people may also experience pain while resting or sleeping.

Other common signs include:

• Stiffness in the shoulder joint
• Difficulty lifting or moving the arm
• Pain while reaching behind your back
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Grinding, clicking, or cracking sounds during movement
• Reduced range of motion
• Shoulder pain that gradually worsens over time

If these symptoms continue or interfere with your daily activities, consulting a doctor can help determine whether arthritis or another shoulder condition is responsible.