Total Shoulder Replacement

Total Shoulder Replacement

Some patients develop the need for a Shoulder Replacement because they have no Rotator Cuff, the deep muscles of the shoulder that are important for giving the shoulder strength in functioning.  When a patient either wears out their Rotator Cuff muscles or has suffered an injury to them in the past that cannot now be repaired this leads to a painful dysfunctional shoulder that can also develop disabling arthritis.  Such a condition is called Rotator Cuff Arthropathy.  The other type Total Shoulder Replacement that these patients require to achieve pain relief and regain function is called a Reverse Total Shoulder.

There are other conditions that can also lead to arthritic destruction of the shoulder joint:  fractures of the shoulder joint, Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Paget’s disease, osteonecrosis, etc.  Total Shoulder Replacement is indicated for these conditions as well.

Shoulder Class

There is a Shoulder Class that meets every Thursday from 2-3 pm that is focused on the recovery of patients having had a Rotator Cuff Repair.  Weekly attendance is necessary for full and successful recovery from surgery.  Exercises, pain management, prescriptions, work/activity restrictions, etc. are discussed and reviewed.

The following information is designed to help you make a decision on whether you are ready to have a Total Shoulder Replacement. Please completely read the downloadable version of Total Shoulder Replacement and be prepared to ask any questions upon your return visit: