Shoulder replacement surgery can feel like a big step, especially if you’ve been living with chronic shoulder pain or stiffness. Many people delay treatment simply because they’re unsure what the process involves or what recovery looks like.
If you’re considering this procedure or supporting someone who is, this guide is here to answer your most pressing concerns. From preparation to recovery, here are the most frequently asked questions for shoulder replacement surgery.
At our practice in Austin, Texas, Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon, is here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re looking for expert care and personalized treatment options, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Total shoulder replacement (also known as total shoulder arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe shoulder joint damage. The damage is typically caused by arthritis, complex fractures, or long-term wear and tear.
The surgery involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder joint (the humeral head and glenoid) with an artificial joint. This helps relieve pain and improve mobility when other treatments like physical therapy or medications haven’t worked.
There exist different types of shoulder joint replacement surgeries. An anatomic total shoulder replacement involves replacing the ball and socket components with a prosthesis mimicking the natural shoulder joint. A partial shoulder replacement involves replacing just the humeral head (the ball).
A reverse shoulder replacement involves reversing the ball and socket position so that the ball is attached to the shoulder blade and the socket at the end of the arm bone. This procedure is used when there is significant rotator cuff damage.
Preparation is key to a smooth surgery and recovery. Here’s how you can get ready:
The procedure typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll be placed under general anesthesia or a nerve block to minimize discomfort.
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
In some cases, patients may also need a rotator cuff repair or may be better candidates for a reverse shoulder replacement, depending on the extent of tendon damage.
Yes, like all surgeries, shoulder replacement surgery comes with potential risks. These may include:
That said, serious complications are rare, especially when the procedure is performed by experienced orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Szerlip. We use state-of-the-art surgical techniques to minimize risks and enhance outcomes. Always talk to your surgeon about your specific risks based on your health profile.
Recovery begins immediately after surgery, and it’s important to follow instructions closely for the best outcome.
Here’s what to expect:
Recovery varies by individual, but most people see significant improvements within 3 to 6 months.
Most patients return to light daily activities, like dressing and self-care, within 2 to 6 weeks. Driving is usually safe after 4 to 6 weeks, once you can control your arm comfortably.
However, full recovery from shoulder replacement can take up to a year, especially if you had extensive joint damage or needed additional repairs, such as a rotator cuff repair.
Here’s a rough timeline:
While shoulder replacement surgery restores much of your shoulder function, some limitations remain. You should avoid the following activities until you have returned to full strength:
Your orthopedic surgeon will provide activity guidelines tailored to your lifestyle. The goal is to protect the new artificial joint from excessive wear. Most patients return to low-impact hobbies like swimming, golfing, gardening, and recreational biking, often with better comfort and performance than before surgery.
If you’ve been living with persistent shoulder pain, shoulder stiffness, or joint dysfunction that limits your daily life, it might be time to consider a more lasting solution. Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, a past injury, or a worn-out shoulder joint, this procedure could be the answer.
We hope this guide to the most frequently asked questions for shoulder replacement surgery helps you feel more confident about your next steps.
Still have questions? Contact us at our Austin office to speak with Dr. Szerlip, a fellowship-trained shoulder and sports medicine surgeon who is committed to helping you get back to what you love with less pain and more mobility.
