Shoulder arthroplasty is a very successful operation that can reduce pain and regain mobility in patients with advanced shoulder arthritis, and in some cases, after severe shoulder fractures. Shoulder replacement surgery can relieve pain and help restore movement, strength, and function of the shoulder. One year after surgery, 95% of patients have painless functions, allowing them to exercise their shoulders to restore strength and movement. 

Most patients can resume playing golf or tennis, swimming, yoga or pilates, and other sports previously avoided due to shoulder pain. However, if the shoulder pain persists and non-surgical treatment options do not relieve the symptoms, it is time to consider total shoulder replacement. If you have exhausted all other options for relieving shoulder pain, your doctor may recommend that you replace your shoulder completely. 

This extensive surgery can effectively relieve the pain caused by rotator cuff tear, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and avascular necrosis. 

 In shoulder replacement surgery, the doctor removes the damaged tissue and replaces the damaged joint with artificial parts. Ask your doctor about shoulder replacement surgery and whether you are suitable for this surgery. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, it may be time for shoulder replacement surgery.

 Shoulder pain

There are three bones in the shoulder: upper arm bone, scapula and clavicle. When working, usually, these bones are lubricated by liquid, cushioned by cartilage, and held together by muscles and tendons so that the bones can slide easily on each other. As a result, inflammation, cartilage wear, bone damage, and muscle or tendon tears are common causes of shoulder pain. 

What is shoulder replacement surgery? 

Shoulder arthroplasty removes part of the shoulder joint and replaces it with an artificial implant to relieve pain and restore the range of rotation and mobility. It is very effective in treating severe pain and stiffness caused by end-stage arthritis.

The shoulder joint consists of a ball-and-socket arrangement in which the humerus or upper arm bone is a ball, and the end of the joint or scapula is a socket. In shoulder replacement surgery, a metal ball is used to replace the humeral head of the shoulder joint. A plastic surface replaces the “socket” or joint socket. The operation may take up to two hours to be performed under regional or general anaesthesia. Post-operative rehabilitation exercises are usually used to help recover faster. 

Shoulder arthritis is a condition in which the smooth cartilage that lines the bones of the shoulder degenerates or breaks down. In a healthy shoulder, these cartilage surfaces allow bones to slide comfortably on each other. However, when these cartilage surfaces disappear, the bones will come into direct contact, increasing friction and causing them to harden and damage each other. As a result, bone-to-bone movement can be very painful and difficult. Surgically implanted artificial replacement surfaces can restore motion, strength, and function without pain. 

When did you know it was time to consider replacement surgery? 

When non-surgical treatments fail, the pain wakes the patient at night, and it is difficult to participate in everyday activities of daily living, total shoulder replacement should be considered. Call Dr Chandra Shekar. B at +91 9959588389 to make an appointment. 

These symptoms indicate that the bones that make up the ball and socket of the shoulder joint rub against each other because their cartilage has worn away.

What symptoms may indicate the need for shoulder replacement? 

Other signs indicate that shoulder replacement may be an option. It includes: 

• Inability to dress by yourself 
• Moderate to severe pain during rest 
• Inability to move and weakness in the shoulders 
• Continuous pain after taking anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injection 

What are some of the most common causes of shoulder replacement? 

Conditions that require total shoulder replacement surgery. 

• Osteoarthritis: Also known as degenerative bone disease, osteoarthritis is common in people over 50. As we age, the cartilage that cushions the bones of the shoulder joint wears down. Without a cushion, the bones will rub against each other and become stiff and inflamed. As the condition gradually deteriorated, other treatments, including drugs, were ineffective. 
• Rotator cuff tear: The rotator cuff comprises four muscles, which can help the shoulder achieve all-around movement. Tendons and bursa support these muscles. Rotator cuff tears occur when tendons and tissues become inflamed and torn. The severity of symptoms may depend on the extent of the tear and the number of tendons affected. In a complete tear, the tendon is completely separated from the muscle tissue, affecting the movement of the shoulder and causing severe pain. Over time, tears can destroy cartilage and cause a condition called rotator cuff arthropathy. 

If this point is reached, the patient is advised to see a rotator cuff specialist if immediate intervention or surgery is required. 

• Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s defence system mistakenly attacks and destroys joints, including the shoulder joints. In this case, the joint will suffer chronic inflammation and the synovial membrane that cushions the joint will thicken. 
• Osteonecrosis: Also known as avascular necrosis, the shoulder bones do not get the necessary blood supply. Without the nutrients and oxygen in the blood, the shoulder bone cells will die and cause arthritis. Some conditions that can cause osteonecrosis include deep-sea diving, alcoholism, certain blood diseases, and severe fractures. 
• Fractures: Car accidents and falls can cause a complete fracture of the shoulder bone. Fractures are the most common reason people need total shoulder replacement surgery. Fractures in older people who already have osteoporosis or osteoarthritis can cause severe damage to the shoulder joints and require replacement surgery. Sometimes the trauma caused by falls and shoulder injuries may lie dormant and become apparent after a few years. 

Fractured and torn cartilage will slowly destroy the cartilage in the shoulder over some time. 

Conclusion:

Patients with shoulder arthritis and chronic rotator cuff injury are among the most common candidates for shoulder arthroplasty. Our Dr Chandra Shekar. B is good at shoulder replacement surgery and provides personalized care for each patient. Also, remember physical therapy is part of your recovery from shoulder replacement surgery. Therefore, if you or someone you know suffers from these symptoms, it is strongly recommended that you see a shoulder specialist, Dr Chandra Shekar. B  as soon as possible in case you need a total shoulder replacement surgery.

If you have shoulder problems, our shoulder surgeon Dr Chandra Shekar. At the Hyderabad shoulder Clinic, Hyderabad can determine if you are suitable for shoulder surgery or any other treatments that are more suitable for you. Contact us at 91 9959588389.