Our Summary

Shoulder replacement surgeries are becoming more common in developed countries, often carried out in specialized centers. For a successful recovery and a return to pain-free movement, patients need to follow an intensive and personalized rehabilitation program. This process can take several weeks and involves different stages, each with their own requirements and steps to follow. If done correctly, patients can expect to return to their normal activities - including sports - without pain, leading to high levels of satisfaction. The extent and intensity of this rehabilitation program should be considered before deciding to undergo surgery.

FAQs

  1. How common are shoulder replacement surgeries in developed countries?
  2. What does the rehabilitation process involve after undergoing a shoulder replacement surgery?
  3. Can patients return to their normal activities, including sports, after a shoulder replacement surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

Additionally, it is important to follow any post-operative instructions given by your healthcare team, including taking prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding certain movements or activities. It is also crucial to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor to ensure a smooth recovery process. By following these guidelines and staying committed to your rehabilitation program, you can optimize the success of your shoulder replacement surgery and improve your overall quality of life.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for shoulder replacement surgery include those who have:

  • Severe arthritis in the shoulder joint, causing significant pain and limited range of motion
  • Failed conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections
  • Fractures in the shoulder joint that have not healed properly
  • Rotator cuff tears that cannot be repaired through other means
  • Avascular necrosis, a condition where the bone in the shoulder joint dies due to a lack of blood supply

It is important for patients to discuss their options with a healthcare provider to determine if shoulder replacement surgery is the best course of action for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before Shoulder Replacement:

  1. Initial Consultation: Patient meets with a surgeon to discuss the need for shoulder replacement surgery.
  2. Pre-Operative Evaluation: Patient undergoes necessary tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Surgery Scheduling: Once cleared for surgery, a date is scheduled for the shoulder replacement procedure.

After Shoulder Replacement:

  1. Hospital Stay: Patient stays in the hospital for a few days following surgery for monitoring and pain management.
  2. Physical Therapy: Patient begins physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength in the shoulder.
  3. Home Recovery: Patient continues physical therapy exercises at home to continue progress.
  4. Follow-Up Appointments: Patient has regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  5. Return to Normal Activities: With time and dedication to the rehabilitation program, the patient can expect to return to normal activities without pain.
  6. Long-term Maintenance: Patient may need to continue with certain exercises or activities to maintain the strength and flexibility of the shoulder joint.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with shoulder replacement surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. What type of physical therapy or rehabilitation program will I need to follow after surgery?
  4. How soon after surgery can I expect to regain full range of motion and strength in my shoulder?
  5. Will I need any assistive devices or modifications to my daily routine after surgery?
  6. How long will the artificial shoulder joint last and are there any limitations on activities or movements I should be aware of?
  7. What are the success rates of shoulder replacement surgery and what factors can affect the outcome?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for shoulder replacement surgery?
  9. How experienced is the surgical team in performing shoulder replacement surgeries and what is their success rate?
  10. How can I best prepare for surgery and what steps can I take to optimize my recovery and rehabilitation process?

Reference

Authors: Farkhondeh Fal M, Kircher J. Journal: Orthopade. 2018 May;47(5):420-427. doi: 10.1007/s00132-018-3545-4. PMID: 29470592