Shoulder pain can be a significant burden, affecting everything from your sleep to your ability to perform everyday tasks.
For some people, conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes may no longer be enough to alleviate the pain or restore function. In such cases, shoulder replacement surgery might be the best option to regain quality of life.
Signs That Shoulder Replacement Might Be Necessary
Chronic Pain
Chronic shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons patients consider shoulder replacement surgery. If you’re experiencing pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections, it may be time to explore surgical options. This persistent pain can be a sign of severe joint damage or advanced arthritis that requires more than just symptom management.
Limited Range of Motion
A limited range of motion in your shoulder can significantly impact your daily life, making simple tasks like reaching for an item on a shelf or putting on a jacket difficult. If you find that your shoulder stiffness is getting worse, and you’re losing the ability to perform routine activities, shoulder replacement surgery could be a solution. The surgery can help restore function and mobility, allowing you to regain independence in your daily life.
Arthritis Diagnosis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is a leading cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. As arthritis progresses, the cartilage that cushions your shoulder joint wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact, which causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. When arthritis severely impacts your shoulder function and conservative treatments no longer provide relief, shoulder replacement surgery might be the next step.
Previous Injuries
Previous shoulder injuries, such as fractures, rotator cuff tears, or dislocations, can lead to long-term damage that might not fully heal with non-surgical treatments. Over time, these injuries can cause chronic pain and reduced shoulder function. If you’re experiencing ongoing problems due to a past injury, shoulder replacement surgery may offer a way to alleviate pain and restore proper function.
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Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgeries
The choice of shoulder replacement surgery will depend on your specific condition and the extent of the damage to your shoulder joint.
Total shoulder replacement, also known as total shoulder arthroplasty, involves replacing both the ball and the socket of the shoulder joint with artificial components. This surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis or significant joint damage that affects both parts of the shoulder. It aims to reduce pain and improve function and range of motion.
Reverse shoulder replacement is a specialised procedure designed for patients with a torn rotator cuff that cannot be repaired. In this surgery, the positions of the ball and socket are reversed, with the ball attached to the shoulder blade and the socket placed at the top of the upper arm bone. This reverse design allows other muscles to compensate for the damaged rotator cuff, providing stability and improving arm movement.
Partial shoulder replacement involves replacing only the damaged part of the shoulder joint—usually the ball of the humerus—while leaving the socket intact. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with localised damage, such as a fracture or early-stage arthritis that affects only one part of the joint. Partial replacement can effectively relieve pain while preserving more of the patient’s natural anatomy.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During shoulder replacement surgery, the damaged parts of your shoulder joint are removed and replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The procedure typically takes about 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
You will be given either general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep during the surgery, or regional anaesthesia, which numbs the shoulder and arm while you remain awake but comfortable. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you based on your health and preferences.
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days following surgery, during which time your pain will be managed, and your recovery progress monitored. You’ll begin gentle physical therapy to start regaining mobility in your shoulder.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery is a gradual process that requires commitment to rehabilitation and self-care. Here’s what to expect during your recovery:
- Expected Recovery Timeline: Most patients can expect to return to light activities within 6-8 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 3-6 months. The timeline can vary depending on factors like age, overall health, and the extent of the surgery.
- Physical Therapy and Exercises: Physical therapy is crucial to your recovery, helping you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your shoulder. Your therapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your needs and progress.
- Tips for a Successful Recovery: To optimise your recovery, follow your surgeon’s instructions closely, attend all physical therapy sessions, and avoid activities that could strain your shoulder. Maintain a healthy diet to support healing, and be patient with your progress—recovery takes time, but the results are worth it.
If you’re experiencing chronic shoulder pain, limited mobility, or difficulty performing tasks, it may be time to consult with a surgeon about shoulder replacement surgery. Early evaluation can help determine the best course of action and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
For expert care and personalised treatment, consider booking an appointment with Dr James McLean. With extensive experience in shoulder replacement surgeries, Dr McLean can help you explore your options and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.