Shoulder replacement is an operation in which the surgeon replaces the damaged parts of the joint with artificial components to relieve pain and improve movement. This page explains when it may be considered, how it is done and what recovery involves.
Note: This is general information. Your surgeon decides whether the operation suits you after examination and imaging, and it is considered only when other treatments are not enough.
When this operation may be considered
The operation may be considered where there is:
- Severe shoulder pain that affects sleep and daily activities
- Advanced arthritis of the shoulder joint
- A severe fracture of the top of the upper arm bone
- A very large rotator cuff tear with joint damage
- Joint damage caused by inflammatory arthritis
- Pain and movement that have not improved with non-surgical care
What the operation addresses
The operation addresses damage to the joint surfaces. Causes include:
- Wear-and-tear arthritis with age or use
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Earlier fractures or shoulder injuries
- Cartilage damage after a dislocation or an old injury
- Damage to the ball of the joint from poor blood supply
- Joint damage linked to a long-standing rotator cuff tear
Diagnosis
The doctor asks about pain, movement and activities, and examines the shoulder. X-rays are requested, and an MRI or CT scan may be used to assess the bone and tendons.
This information helps decide which type of artificial joint is suitable if one is needed, depending on the state of the rotator cuff and the bone.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Before surgery is considered, non-surgical treatments are tried, and they may ease symptoms in many patients:
- Rest and changing painful activities
- Physiotherapy to keep movement and strengthen muscles
- Cold or warm packs, whichever feels comfortable
- Injections in some cases, at the doctor's discretion
- Arthroscopic cleaning of the joint in selected cases
Surgical treatment
During the operation the surgeon removes the damaged parts of the ball and socket and fits artificial components. There are different types of replacement, and the surgeon chooses the one that suits you based on the state of the bone and tendons.
Your surgeon will explain the benefits, possible risks and alternatives before you decide. See the before-surgery guide to prepare.
- Replacing the ball of the upper arm bone only, in selected cases
- Replacing both the ball and the socket
- Reverse replacement when the rotator cuff is severely damaged
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery time varies from person to person and is set by the surgeon. Rehabilitation and following instructions are central to a good result. See the after-surgery guide too.
- Protecting the shoulder in a sling as instructed
- Controlling pain and swelling
- Gradually moving the shoulder under a therapist's guidance
- Gradually strengthening the muscles
- Returning to daily activities with the surgeon's approval
When to see the doctor
See a doctor if:
- Shoulder pain is severe and stops sleep or daily activities
- Symptoms have not improved with non-surgical care
- You have had a serious injury or fracture of the shoulder
- After surgery you notice redness, discharge, fever or worsening pain
- You develop weakness or numbness in the arm