Total Shoulder Replacement

Living with shoulder pain can be debilitating, affecting even the simplest tasks like lifting objects, reaching overhead, or sleeping comfortably. If you have persistent pain that doesn’t improve with medication or physical therapy, a total shoulder replacement may provide long-term relief.

At Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville, we specialize in joint replacement surgery, offering cutting-edge treatment options tailored to your needs. If you’re considering shoulder replacement surgery, schedule a consultation with our office in Zanesville, Ohio, today to discuss your options.

Anatomy of the Shoulder Joint

The shoulder joint is a highly mobile yet complex structure, allowing for a wide range of motion. It is a ball and socket joint that consists of the following structures:

Humerus (upper arm bone): The top of the humerus has a rounded head that fits into the shoulder socket.
Scapula (shoulder blade): This bone contains the glenoid cavity, where the metal ball component is placed during shoulder replacement surgery.
Clavicle (collarbone): This bone connects the arm to the body, providing stability.
Rotator cuff tendons: These tendons surround the joint and help control movement and stability.

Due to arthritis, injury, or overuse, the smooth cartilage covering these bones may wear away, leading to pain and stiffness that might require shoulder joint replacement.

What is Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Joint replacement surgery involves removing damaged portions of a joint and replacing them with artificial components. In a total shoulder replacement surgery, both the humeral head (ball) and the glenoid socket are replaced with prosthetic materials. The goal is to relieve pain and restore movement.

There are two primary types of shoulder replacements:

Your surgeon will determine the best option based on your medical condition and lifestyle needs.

Why Do You Need Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

A total shoulder replacement is typically recommended for individuals experiencing:

Severe osteoarthritis: The most common reason for shoulder replacement, causing cartilage loss and joint pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition leading to inflammation and joint destruction.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a previous injury, such as a fracture or dislocation.
Severe fractures: Breaks in the upper arm bone that cannot heal properly.
Rotator cuff arthropathy: A type of arthritis caused by long-term rotator cuff tendon damage.
Avascular necrosis: A condition where the bone loses blood supply, leading to joint collapse.

If non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections fail to relieve pain, surgery may be the best option.

Am I a Candidate for Shoulder Joint Replacement?

You may be a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery if:

If your pain disrupts sleep or affects your ability to perform routine tasks, a total shoulder replacement may significantly improve your quality of life.

Orthopaedic Evaluation for Shoulder Surgery

A detailed orthopaedic evaluation will help determine if a total shoulder replacement surgery is right for you. This evaluation includes:

Medical history assessment: Reviewing past injuries, arthritis, and overall health.
Physical examination: Testing shoulder strength, stability, and mobility.
Imaging tests: X-rays and sometimes MRI to examine joint damage and assess whether an anatomic total shoulder replacement or a reverse total shoulder replacement is more suitable.
Discussion of treatment options: Reviewing the potential benefits and risks of surgery.

Shoulder Replacement Options

There are several types of shoulder replacements, including:

Total Shoulder Replacement: This replaces both the ball and socket.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Originally designed for patients with rotator cuff tendon damage, but being used more frequently in other situations as well.
Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Only the ball is replaced, preserving the natural socket.
Resurfacing Shoulder Replacement: A less invasive option, preserving more natural bone.

Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your condition, activity level, and overall health.

Possible Complications of Shoulder Replacement Surgery

While shoulder replacement surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

Infection: Preventative antibiotics are used, but infections can occur.
Implant loosening: Over time, the prosthetic components may shift.
Nerve injury: Rare but may cause temporary weakness or numbness.
Blood clots: Preventative measures include medication and movement exercises.
Stiffness or limited mobility: Can often be improved with physical therapy.

Your surgeon will take steps to minimize these risks and ensure a successful recovery.

Preparing for Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Preparation for total shoulder replacement surgery involves:

Medical clearance: Your doctor will review medications and pre-existing conditions.
Preoperative exercises: Strengthening the shoulder joint before surgery may improve outcomes.
Arranging assistance: You may need help with daily activities after surgery.
Home modifications: Set up your home for easy access to essential items.

The Surgical Procedure

A total shoulder replacement is performed under general anesthesia and typically follows these steps:

Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision over the shoulder joint.
Removing damaged bone: The damaged portions of the ball and socket joint are removed.
Implanting prosthetics: A metal ball and plastic socket are inserted.
Securing the implant: The components are fixed in place.
Closure and recovery: The incision is closed, and a sterile dressing is applied.

The surgery takes about 1-2 hours, followed by a hospital stay for monitoring.

Recovery After Total Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Recovery following shoulder replacement includes the following:

First few days: Pain management and early mobility exercises.
First few weeks: Wearing a sling for support.
4-6 weeks: Beginning physical therapy for movement restoration and strength.
3-6 months: Gradual return to normal activities.

A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to strengthen your shoulder and restore function. Full recovery can take several months, but most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility.

Research and Advancements in Shoulder Replacements

Recent advancements in shoulder replacement surgery include:

Custom implants: 3D imaging creates patient-specific implants for a better fit.
Minimally invasive techniques: Smaller incisions reduce recovery time.
Advanced prosthetic materials: Improve durability and function.

Ongoing research continues to refine techniques, leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.

Expert Shoulder Replacement Care in Zanesville, OH

If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, our specialists at Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville provide expert shoulder replacement surgery to help you regain mobility. We offer comprehensive care, from evaluation to rehabilitation.

Don’t let shoulder pain limit your life—schedule a consultation today to explore your options for total shoulder replacement.

Medically reviewed by Benjamin R. Pulley, MD, FAAOS

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