Shoulder Replacement

A shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or arthritic shoulder joint is replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis). The goal is to relieve pain and improve function when other treatments, like medication or physical therapy, have not been effective.

There are two main types of shoulder replacement:

1. Total Shoulder Replacement: Both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid) are replaced.
2. Reverse Shoulder Replacement: The normal ball-and-socket anatomy is reversed, which is typically done in cases of severe rotator cuff damage or when the shoulder’s natural stability is compromised.

This surgery is commonly recommended for people with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe fractures. It can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain, although full recovery can take several months.