Shoulder pain and stiffness can make even the simplest of tasks difficult. For individuals who suffer from chronic shoulder pain due to arthritis or injury, shoulder replacement surgery may be the answer. In this blog, we will discuss what shoulder replacement surgery is, when it's needed, and what to expect before and after the procedure.
What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is a surgical procedure in which a damaged shoulder joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint. The procedure can be performed either as a total shoulder replacement or a partial shoulder replacement. In a total shoulder replacement, both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced with a prosthetic joint, while in a partial shoulder replacement, only the ball is replaced.
When is Shoulder Replacement Surgery Needed?
Shoulder replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic shoulder pain and stiffness due to arthritis or injury. The most common type of arthritis that leads to shoulder replacement surgery is osteoarthritis. This condition causes the cartilage in the shoulder joint to wear away, leading to bone-on-bone contact and pain. Other conditions that may require shoulder replacement surgery include rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and avascular necrosis.
What to Expect Before and After Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Before undergoing shoulder replacement surgery, your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and imaging tests to determine the extent of the damage to your shoulder joint. You will also be asked to stop taking certain medications and to avoid eating or drinking anything for a period of time before the surgery.
After the surgery, you will be given pain medication and physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder. You may need to wear a sling for a period of time after the surgery, and you will need to avoid certain activities until your shoulder has fully healed.
In conclusion, shoulder replacement surgery can be a highly effective treatment option for individuals who suffer from chronic shoulder pain and stiffness. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, talk to your doctor to see if shoulder replacement surgery may be right for you.
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