Total Shoulder Joint Replacement
Overview
If you are experiencing pain, stiffness or loss of function in your shoulder joint, your doctor may recommend shoulder replacement surgery to alleviate the symptoms. Shoulder replacement surgery can be performed as a total or half replacement. During the procedure, the surgeon removes and replaces the diseased or damaged ball and socket of the shoulder joint with artificial materials. The artificial shoulder is shaped to provide the normal rolling, gliding, bending motion of the joint. Our goal for successful treatment is to help patients regain their range of motion and quality of life.
Risk Factors
The following factors can cause damage or loss of functionality to the shoulder.
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
- Failed shoulder replacement surgery
- Bone deformity
- Increasing age
- Accident or athletic injury
Tests
Before surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will need to determine your shoulder’s range of motion and the degree of damage. A current health assessment will also be done prior to surgery.
- Physical exam
- X-ray
- Blood tests
- MRI
- Ultrasound scan
Postoperative Rehabilitation
Plan ahead for your recovery time. During recovery, physical therapists guide patients in various strengthening and mobility exercises. The goal is to return patients to their optimum level of functioning.
- Wound care
- Diet
- Knee strengthening exercises
- Proper Body mechanics
- Walking
Postoperative Risks
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with knee replacement surgery.
- Joint stiffening
- Breakage of artificial joint
- Fracture/break in bone below the new knee
- Wear and tear over time
- Infection
- Dislocation of the new knee
- Blood clot
- Stroke
- Nerve damage
- Heart attack
Rehabilitation
Our rehabilitation staff specializes in:
- Assessment and treatment of injuries of the foot and ankle, shoulder, knee, spine, hip, wrist, hand and elbow.
- Advanced evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal problems, such as sports-related injuries, occupational injuries, and injury prevention on the playing field as well as in the workplace.
- Evaluation and treatment of spinal injuries and educational programs on spine care.
- Development of biomechanical braces and supports for the foot, and custom sports braces and athletic pads.
- Advanced manual therapy/mobilization of the spine and extremities.
