Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Unravelling the Etiology of Shoulder Osteoarthritis

This research is looking into why some people develop shoulder arthritis, particularly when the upper arm bone (humeral head) moves slightly backward in the shoulder joint. We don't fully understand why this happens or how it leads to arthritis, and current treatments often focus on pain relief or surgery in later stages. This study hopes to change that. Researchers will follow two groups of people under 60 for five years: one group showing early signs of shoulder arthritis, and another healthy group, both with the backward shift of the arm bone. They will use special MRI and CT scans, along with movement analysis, to learn more about the condition's progression. The goal is to find better ways to treat, slow down, or even prevent shoulder arthritis, potentially reducing the need for surgery.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Enrolment target

Start

23 Jun 2021

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder

What is this study about?

This study is investigating a common type of shoulder arthritis, specifically looking at why the upper arm bone might shift backward in the shoulder joint, and how this shift could lead to joint damage over time. While we know shoulder arthritis can cause pain and stiffness, we don't fully understand its earliest causes or how it progresses, especially in cases where the arm bone moves backward. Current basic treatments for arthritis include pain relief, steroid injections, or physical therapy. If these don't work, surgery might be an option, but researchers want to find ways to help people earlier, before surgery is needed.

The main idea behind this research is that an imbalance in the muscles around the shoulder might be pulling the arm bone backward. Over time, this could cause wear and tear on the joint's smooth cushioning (cartilage). However, this is just a theory, and more research is needed to prove it. They also want to see if the shape of the shoulder socket (glenoid) plays a role in developing arthritis.

By understanding these early stages and causes, the researchers hope to develop new treatments that can slow down or even stop the progression of shoulder arthritis. This could make a huge difference in people's lives, reducing pain and stiffness, and potentially preventing the need for major shoulder surgery in the future. The project aims to follow people over several years to watch how these changes develop.

Key takeaways

Aims to understand why shoulder arthritis develops.
Specifically looks at the link between a 'backward shift' of the arm bone and arthritis.
Involves special scans (MRI, CT) and movement analysis.
Follows participants for five years to see how the condition progresses.
Hopes to find ways to slow down or prevent shoulder arthritis.
Participants must be 18-59 with a specific shoulder bone shift.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 59 years old. A key requirement is that imaging (like X-rays or MRI scans) of your shoulder must show that your upper arm bone has shifted backward by more than 55% in the shoulder socket. This shift is a specific characteristic the researchers are interested in studying.

There are several reasons why you might not be able to join. If you are 60 or older, you won't be eligible. Also, if you have a history of your shoulder dislocating or feeling unstable, or if you've had a past shoulder injury like a fracture, this study might not be suitable for you. People with certain nerve problems affecting their arm, or those with existing noticeable deformity in their shoulder bones (either the arm bone or the socket), cannot participate.

Finally, if you already have significant arthritis in your shoulder (more than mild signs), or issues with your rotator cuff muscles or other important shoulder structures (the labrum), you wouldn't be able to join. The study is specifically looking at early changes and the causes of arthritis, so they need participants without these more advanced conditions or other complicating factors.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Am I between 18 and 59 years old?
Do scans show my upper arm bone has shifted backward by more than 55%?
Have I ever had shoulder instability or a shoulder fracture?
Do I have any nerve problems affecting my arm?
Do I have significant existing shoulder arthritis or severe damage to my rotator cuff?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be one of 60 participants in total, and you'll be followed for five years. The study involves several appointments where you'll have some special medical scans and tests.

At the start of the study, then again in year 2, and finally in year 4, you will have three main types of tests on your 'affected' shoulder: a T1Rho MRI scan, a quantitative CT scan, and a motion analysis. The MRI and CT scans are detailed imaging techniques, and motion analysis involves sensors to track how your shoulder moves. If you are in the group with early signs of arthritis, these same tests will also be done on your other, unaffected shoulder at the beginning and in year 4.

Throughout years 2 and 3, and then from years 3 to 5, researchers will be working with computer models based on your scan data. This part doesn't require any active involvement from you. The final analysis of all the study information will happen in year 5. Please note that this study will start with a smaller group of six participants initially.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any research study has potential benefits and risks. For this study, a potential benefit is contributing to a better understanding of shoulder arthritis, which could lead to future treatments for yourself and others. However, there's no guarantee you will personally benefit from taking part. The risks might include discomfort or very small radiation exposure from the CT scans, and the time commitment for appointments. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (2)

University of Ottawa
Verified postcode
Ottawa, Canada
Carleton University
Verified postcode
Ottawa, Canada

Common questions

What is shoulder arthritis?

It's a condition where the smooth protective surface inside your shoulder joint wears away, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving your arm.

What does 'posterior subluxation' mean?

It means your upper arm bone (humeral head) has shifted slightly backward within its socket in your shoulder joint.

Will this study give me a new treatment?

No, this study is about understanding the causes of shoulder arthritis, not testing new treatments. The findings could help develop new treatments in the future.

How long will I be involved in the study?

If you join, you will be followed for a period of five years, with specific appointments over that time.

Are the scans painful?

MRI scans are usually painless but can be noisy and make some people feel a bit confined. CT scans involve lying still and are also generally painless.