Shoulder Arthritis and Replacement

Shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure to replace the arthritic joint in the shoulder with an artificial joint. The artificial joint is made of metal and plastic.

Shoulder replacement is usually recommended for people with severe arthritis in their shoulder joint that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or cortisone shots.

The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the front of the shoulder and remove the damaged joint surfaces. The surgeon will then attach the artificial joint to the remaining bone.

There are two types of shoulder replacement: Anatomic and Reverse

• Anatomic: the ball is replaced with a new ball, and the socket is replaced with a new socket. This requires proper ligaments and rotator cuff tendons to stabilize the shoulder

• Reverse: the ball and socket are switched. This is done in the setting of chronic rotator cuff tearing because the deltoid will take over the majority of motor function.

There are pros and cons to both types of replacements. Contact us for further discussion if you are interested.

After the surgery, you will be placed in a sling to protect your shoulder. You will likely be able to go home the same day or the day after the surgery.

You will need to do physical therapy to regain your range of motion and strength. You may also need to take medication to control pain.

Most people who have shoulder replacement are able to return to their normal activities, including work and sports, after several months of recovery.

What are the risks of shoulder replacement?

Like any surgery, shoulder replacement has risks. Some of the risks include:

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Nerve damage

• Dislocation of the artificial joint

• Pain

What are the benefits of shoulder replacement?

Shoulder replacement can provide relief from pain and improve your range of motion and strength. It can also improve your quality of life.

What should I expect after shoulder replacement?

After shoulder replacement, you will likely be in a sling for several weeks. You will also need to do physical therapy to regain your range of motion and strength. You may also need to take medication to control pain.

Most people who have shoulder replacement are able to return to their normal activities, including work and sports, after several months of recovery.

Please contact us if you are considering shoulder replacement to discuss the risks and benefits.