Charcot's osteoarthropathy of the shoulder

Abstract

Charcot’s joint or neuropathic osteoarthropathy of the shoulder joint is an uncommon disease characterized by its destruction due to loss of sensory perception of the joint. Appropriate clinical assessment, diagnostic workup and treatment are essential in the management of Charcot joint. Patient education on activity modification must be included in the management as such knowledge may slow or prevent the impairment associated with a Charcot joint. Here we are reporting a case of neuropathic osteoarthropathy of the shoulder that occured secondary to syringomyelia. The clinical features, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, diagnostic workup and management options are discussed.