Charcot Arthropathy of the Shoulder

  • Usually secondary to syringomyelia – 75%
  • Difficulty is in diagnosis

History

  • decreased sensation in both hands
  • difficulties with clumsy hands, balance, gait
  • bowel/bladder problems

Exam

  • long tract signs
  • detailed neurologic exam
    • vibration sense
    • 2 point discrimination

Xrays

  • flattening of humeral head with fragmentation, subluxation & periarticular bone debris

Treatment               

  • Nonoperative
    • rest, NSAIDs, activity modification
  • Operative
    • seldom indicated
    • high rate of failure