Shoulders contain complex parts that are susceptible to injuries. Your orthopedic doctor may recommend shoulder surgery depending on the severity of your condition. In some cases, your doctor may advise you to undergo reverse shoulder replacement surgery.
In this procedure, your surgeon will switch the ball and socket in your shoulder joint. This reversal sometimes enables a wider range of motion, since it compensates for damaged areas present in your shoulders.
What Is Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Damage or an injury in your shoulder area may inhibit normal function and cause pain. Reverse shoulder replacement surgery is the latest surgical procedure that aims to address issues in your shoulder joint.
In this procedure, the positions of the artificial ball and socket of the shoulder joint are switched. A prosthetic ball is attached to the shoulder blade where you would typically have a socket. Your surgeon will then attach a prosthetic socket to the top of the upper arm bone or humerus. Finally, they will remove any damaged cartilage and secure the prosthetics in their new positions.
Your doctor may advise you to remain in the hospital for a few days and restrict shoulder movement to promote a faster and more effective recovery. As with other surgical treatments, you should undergo physical therapy following the procedure to improve shoulder stability and motion.
Patients who have undergone reverse shoulder replacement surgery say that it is less painful than the traditional replacement method. They also report having a better range of motion.
Why Did My Doctor Recommend Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Torn Rotator Cuff
Your rotator cuff is prone to wear and tear since you use it every time you move your shoulders. It is composed of four muscles and their supporting tendons. It aids in shoulder stability during motion. Due to wear and tear or possibly due to injury, tendons in the rotator cuff may be damaged from stretching or tearing. These injuries can range from mild to severe.
Usually, rotator cuff injuries can heal through nonsurgical methods and physical therapy. However, if the damage is extensive, your doctor may recommend surgery.
Chronic Shoulder Pain or Dislocation
Shoulder pain is a common issue that causes constant and intense pain. If pain is severe and lasts for more than a week, this may indicate torn shoulder tendons or ligaments. Your shoulders are also prone to dislocation since it is a part that moves frequently.
Unsuccessful Traditional Shoulder Replacement
Patients who had traditional shoulder replacement surgery might experience pain and limited movement if the initial procedure failed. Mechanical components either become loose or stiff and affect how your shoulder functions. The reversal aspect of the procedure can address this problem.
Damage Due to Arthritis
Over time, arthritis may progressively limit your shoulder movements and lead to severe pain. The joint can become irreversibly damaged and lead to issues with the surrounding tendons and ligaments.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Maryland
Shoulder injuries shouldn’t stop you from enjoying an active life. If your shoulder is giving you problems that require a replacement, your doctor may suggest that you have a reverse replacement shoulder replacement surgery.
To know if you are a candidate for this procedure, visit our orthopedic specialists at Chesapeake Hand and Shoulder. We are dedicated to giving you expert care and treatment. Our board-certified doctors employ both the latest non-surgical and surgical methods to treat patients.
To get in touch with us, call (410) 296-6232 or schedule an appointment now. For your convenience, you may visit any of our clinics located throughout Maryland. We look forward to serving you!
