About 53,000 Americans have shoulder arthroplasty (shoulder replacement) surgeries each year. If you and your orthopedic doctor have tried conservative methods to control pain and loss of function, then it may be time for this advanced orthopedic procedure. Here is what you can expect from a top shoulder surgeon as you consider shoulder replacement surgery.
A Top Shoulder Surgeon Will Diagnose Your Shoulder Condition Accurately
For many people, shoulder replacement surgery is not the first and best choice to relieve pain and to normalize strength, function, and joint performance. When you visit a shoulder surgeon in one of our Maryland clinics, expect a complete medical evaluation to include:
- Discussion of your symptoms.
- A physical examination of your shoulder.
- Review of your medical history and any interventions you have tried to relieve your shoulder symptoms.
- State-of-the-art imaging–X-rays, CT scan, or MRI, as needed.
Plus, you will talk about your lifestyle and how some changes can improve your joint health and recovery after surgery. You may be surprised to learn that there are many ways–not just surgery–to have a comfortable shoulder joint that works efficiently.
Your Shoulder Surgeon Will Develop the Right Care Plan for Your Joint, Overall Health, and Treatment Goals
A top shoulder surgeon understands how ongoing pain and joint weakness can change how a patient feels and goes about normal activities of daily life and occupation. The doctor will consider the physical aspects of your shoulder, including any osteoarthritis, injuries, or joint decay (necrosis) you may have. He will delve into how other treatments have helped or hindered your pain level, strength, and range of motion.
If you qualify for shoulder arthroplasty, the orthopedic surgeon will explain in detail:
- The kind of surgery that would benefit you most (a total replacement, a reverse shoulder replacement, or partial (hemi-plasty) replacement.
- How to prepare for your surgery.
- How to manage postoperative pain, wound care, and joint stabilization with a sling.
- The rehabilitation process and timeline to include physical therapy.
Rest assured that your surgical plan and aftercare will be customized fully to you, your health, and your unique lifestyle. You will have ample opportunity to ask any and all questions regarding the procedure, recovery, and long-term expectations.
Your Shoulder Replacement Surgery Will Be State of the Art
Today’s orthopedic surgeries are better than ever, and shoulder replacement surgery is no exception. With a board-certified shoulder surgeon performing your procedure and directing your care, you are assured of the best possible outcome.
Your shoulder doctor will select the prosthesis (joint replacement components) best suited to your anatomy. The materials are highly biocompatible and resilient. For most patients, shoulder replacements are highly successful, and complications, such as infection or loosening of joint components, are relatively rare.
Your Shoulder Surgeon Will Follow You Through Recovery
Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery from shoulder replacement surgery. Your shoulder doctor will work closely with your physical therapist to create a personalized rehabilitation plan to help you regain strength and range of motion in your shoulder. It is important to follow this plan diligently, as it can significantly impact the success of your surgery.
In addition to physical therapy, your shoulder surgeon will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Your doctor will guide you on when it is safe for you to return to driving, return to work, and resume normal activities and sports.
Shoulder replacement surgery can be a major procedure, but advancements in pain management techniques have made recovery more comfortable than ever before. Your shoulder doctor will discuss various pain management options with you before your surgery, so you can choose the approach that works well for you.
Advanced Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Maryland
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our shoulder surgeons take the greatest care in all aspects of shoulder replacement evaluation, surgery, and recovery. They are highly experienced and skilled, and best of all, they understand that every patient is unique and valuable.
To learn more about joint replacement, call our office to book a consultation with a top shoulder surgeon at (410) 266-6232 or request a visit by completing this form. We have five offices to serve you: Lutherville, Clarksville, Pasadena, Westminster, and Bel Air. We hope to see you soon!
