When injury or pain from arthritis impacts how you use your shoulder, it may be time for a shoulder replacement surgery (arthroplasty). To select the right doctor to help you decide about treatment and to perform the arthroplasty, you need good information.
This blog aims to empower you in your choice of shoulder replacement physicians. After all, knowledge really is so empowering.
What Is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is an orthopedic operation which replaces damaged joint components with artificial ones made of metal and plastic. This common surgical procedure improves shoulder movement and flexibility. It also manages the pain caused by arthritis or injury.
About 100,000 Americans have shoulder replacement surgery annually. Since it is such an effective treatment option, experts predict that the numbers of shoulder replacements will rise each and every year.
There are three basic types of shoulder replacement procedures. They are total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty and partial shoulder replacement (hemiarthroplasty). That said, if you need this kind of surgery, your shoulder replacement doctor will tailor your operation to fit your health, activity level, age, and more.
Why Do You Need a Shoulder Replacement Doctor?
A skilled and experienced shoulder replacement doctor gives you the best possible chances for excellent outcomes. The orthopedic surgeon will perform the procedure expertly. Plus, he or she will tell you about what to do to prepare for and recover from your surgery.
The doctor will answer all your questions about your shoulder replacement operation. So, be sure to ask about possible risks and complications, recovery and rehabilitation and the outcome you may expect to have. It is the shoulder replacement physician’s job to educate you about all aspects of your care plan.
How to Find the Right Shoulder Replacement Doctor?
While looking for a new doctor can seem a little intimidating, there are some logical steps to take to help you along. Here are some tips.
Get Referrals from Reliable Sources
Reliable sources include your primary care physician, physical therapist or other healthcare providers who know you and your situation well. Also, you may ask friends, coworkers or relatives who have had shoulder surgery who they used. Ask what their experiences were like. Personal referrals such as these will give insight into a doctor’s bedside manner, skill, and aftercare.
Research the Doctor’s Credentials
When you have a few names on your “short list,” do a little online homework. Look into the doctor’s education and services offered. The physician’s website should have a biography section which details the doctor’s credentials and experience.
For instance, board certification is an important factor when choosing a shoulder replacement doctor. It tells you that the doctor has the necessary training, skills and experience to perform orthopedic surgery. Plus, board certification means that the doctor has passed rigorous tests, is involved with professional peers and keeps up to date on the latest orthopedic treatments.
Go online to the American Board of Medical Specialties website. Use the “Is My Doctor Board Certified?” section to verify the surgeon’s qualifications.
Evaluate the Doctor’s Communication Style
During your initial consultation at the orthopedic office, note if the doctor spends time answering your questions and explaining the procedure. You want a provider who values you as a patient. The doctor also should consider your treatment preferences and concerns about results and recovery.
Choose a Doctor with a Convenient Office Location
You want a shoulder replacement doctor who practices close to your home or place of employment. Make sure the office has onsite imaging services and even a surgery center if possible. The more services you have in one convenient location, the easier your rehabilitation and follow-up appointments will be.
Check with Your Health Insurance Carrier
Make sure your potential shoulder replacement surgeon accepts your health insurance. So, check on this with your carrier and with the doctor’s insurance team member.
Inquire about co-pays, too. You need to know the out-of-pocket costs for office visits, surgery, physical therapy, X-rays, and other kinds of testing.
Shoulder Replacement Doctor Near You
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, upper extremity care is all we do. We have orthopedic surgeons and plastic surgeons on our team, which means we can treat the full spectrum of upper extremity conditions, including traumatic injuries. Our orthopedic surgeons are trained and experienced in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques. They work hard to offer personalized care and guide patients through the simplest to the most complex of care plans.
To learn more about us and our state-of-the-art shoulder replacement surgeries, call us today at (410) 296-6232. To schedule your consultation, use our convenient appointment request form.
We have five convenient locations to serve you: Lutherville, Bel Air, Pasadena, Clarksville, and Westminster, MD. We look forward to serving you!
