Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder pain affects daily life. Simple tasks like lifting groceries or reaching overhead become difficult. For many, the cause is arthritis, injury, or long-standing shoulder problems.
When medicines or physiotherapy fail, shoulder replacement surgery offers a strong solution. This procedure restores movement, reduces pain, and improves quality of life.
This blog explains what shoulder replacement involves, why doctors recommend it, the different types, benefits, recovery steps, and answers to common questions.
What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
In shoulder replacement surgery, surgeons remove damaged parts of the joint and replace them with artificial components. These parts are made of metal, plastic, or both.
The surgery aims to remove the source of pain and restore smooth, pain-free movement.
Depending on your condition, the surgeon may replace only the ball of the joint or both the ball and the socket.
Why Do Patients Need Shoulder Replacement?
Doctors suggest shoulder replacement when other treatments no longer work. You might need the surgery for these reasons:
- Severe Arthritis – Cartilage wears away, and bones rub against each other.
- Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy – Long-term rotator cuff injuries damage the joint.
- Severe Fractures – Complex shoulder fractures cannot heal with plates or screws.
- Failed Previous Surgery – Earlier procedures do not give relief.
- Chronic Pain and Stiffness – Pain and restricted mobility disturb sleep, work, and daily life.
If you cannot lift your arm, sleep well, or perform simple tasks despite other treatments, your doctor may advise shoulder replacement.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Surgeons choose the right procedure based on your age, joint condition, and muscle strength.
- Total Shoulder Replacement
- The surgeon replaces both the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid).
- Best for arthritis patients with strong rotator cuff muscles.
- Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty)
- The surgeon replaces only the ball of the joint.
- Useful for fractures where the socket remains healthy.
- Reverse Shoulder Replacement
- The surgeon reverses the positions of the ball and socket.
- Helps when rotator cuff muscles are torn and cannot work.
- Resurfacing
- The surgeon caps only the damaged bone surface with a prosthesis.
- Works well for younger patients who need bone preservation.
Benefits of Shoulder Replacement
When surgeons perform shoulder replacement at the right time, patients notice clear improvements.
- Medicines cannot match the pain relief surgery provides.
- Patients lift their arms and perform daily tasks with ease.
- Many sleep better without constant shoulder pain.
- Modern implants last 15–20 years or longer.
- Patients enjoy a better quality of life with more independence.
The biggest benefit is the freedom to move without fear of pain.
The Recovery Journey
Recovery requires effort and patience. Here’s what usually happens:
- Hospital Stay – You stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days.
- Immobilization – You wear a sling for a short period.
- Physiotherapy – The physiotherapist starts exercises within a day or two. These movements keep your joint from stiffening.
- Pain Control – Doctors give medicines and suggest ice packs to reduce pain.
- Return to Normal Life – You resume light tasks in 4–6 weeks. Complete recovery usually takes 3–6 months.
Your commitment to physiotherapy makes recovery successful.
Risks and Considerations
All surgeries involve risks, and shoulder replacement is no exception. Possible issues include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Implant loosening over time
- Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
- Stiffness if you avoid physiotherapy
- Dislocation in reverse shoulder replacements
Choosing a skilled surgeon and following aftercare instructions lowers these risks.
Doctor Introduction
Dr. Chintan Vinod Desai practices as a consulting Shoulder Surgeon in Tardeo, Parel, Dadar, Mumbai Central, Lalbaug, Santacruz, and Mulund, Mumbai. He performs advanced shoulder surgery techniques and treats a wide range of conditions. His expertise covers shoulder instability, frozen shoulder, impingement, rotator cuff tears, shoulder arthritis, and calcific tendonitis. Patients trust him for safe and effective treatment that helps restore movement and reduce pain.
FAQs
1. Will shoulder replacement surgery hurt?
Surgeons perform the procedure under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Afterward, doctors manage pain with medicines, and it eases as you recover.
2. How long will my shoulder replacement last?
Modern implants last 15–20 years or more. Longevity depends on your activity level, age, and health.
3. Can I return to sports after surgery?
Yes, you can return to low-impact sports like swimming, cycling, or golf. Doctors usually advise against high-impact sports to protect the implant.
4. What is the success rate of shoulder replacement?
Studies show over 90% success at 10 years. Most patients experience pain relief and better function.
5. When can I go back to work?
You can return to desk jobs within 4–6 weeks. If your job requires heavy physical work, recovery may take 3–4 months.
Conclusion
Shoulder replacement surgery helps people with long-term pain regain movement and confidence. By replacing the damaged parts of the joint, the surgery reduces pain and improves quality of life.
If shoulder pain limits your daily life, consult a specialist. With guidance from experts like Dr. Chintan Vinod Desai, you can take the first step toward a pain-free and active future.