5 Early Signs of Shoulder Arthritis You Should Never Ignore 💪🦴 Shoulder arthritis happens when cartilage wears down, causing bones to rub together. This leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement. First sign: shoulder pain that worsens with movement. Simple tasks like lifting or reaching can trigger discomfort. Second sign: stiffness in the joint. Your shoulder may feel tight, especially in the morning or after resting. Third sign: grinding or clicking sounds. Damaged cartilage causes bone