Shoulder replacement

Joint replacements have become much more common. When a joint is replaced, part or the entire joint is removed during surgery and a new artificial joint (prosthesis) is put in. Most artificial joints are made from high strength plastic or metal or a combination of both.

Shoulder replacement surgery is done for several reasons. The main reason for shoulder replacement is to relieve severe pain that interferes with normal activities. The most common cause of the pain is severe arthritis that has destroyed or damaged the joint.

Shoulder replacement is major surgery and is done by an orthopedic surgeon (a bone specialist). It is much less common than total hip or knee replacements. It may be necessary to see a physical therapist before the surgery. Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint will be shown. These exercises will help make the joint stronger. Physical therapy may be started the same day as the surgery. Physical therapy following shoulder replacement is progressive. It usually lasts about 6 months, after which the shoulder usually has improved motion and very little pain.

There are fewer complications with a shoulder replacement than other joint replacement surgeries. Possible complications include:

• fracture
• rotator cuff injury
• loose prosthesis and
• infection

The surgeon should be called for any signs and symptoms of infection. Watch for any of the following:

• pain that gets worse after 24 hours
• swelling and redness of the incision
• foul smelling drainage coming from the incision or
• a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Centigrade)

After a shoulder replacement, the recovery exercises require a lot of hard work. Sometimes the exercises may need to be done 4 to 5 times a day. The surgery does not make the joint normal again and the recovery process is very long. The reward for doing the exercises can be a greater range of motion without pain. It will be possible to return to those activities that were limited by the pain.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE3457.RF2 VRS# 7644 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.