Signs and Symptoms

Since rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulder is usually a symmetrical disease, both shoulders may be affected.

The most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulder is a stiff or "frozen" shoulder. However, shoulder stiffness can also be a symptom of other causes including athletic injury, anklosing spondylitis and tendinitis.

Other common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulder include:

• swelling and pain in one or more joints, lasting six weeks or more
• fatigue and/or weakness
• shoulder stiffness following periods of immobility which gradually improves with movement
• general sickness, mild fevers, anemia and weight loss Only a physician can make a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

If you think you have any of these symptoms, please consult with your doctor.