Shoulder Replacements

Shoulder replacements or arthroplasties are surgical procedures for the replacement of the head of the arm bone, or humerus, and the socket of the joint in the shoulder blade for a total replacement or just one part for a partial replacement or hemiarthroplasty. A reverse shoulder replacement is used for more complex cases in which the location of the ball and socket are switched. This surgery is often needed following breakdown of cartilage due to arthritis and following certain humeral fractures.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• Shoulder pain
• Neck pain, elbow pain
• Limited range of motion, especially after being in a sling for four to six weeks following
• Surgery
• Loss of grip strength

HOW CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP?

Your post-operative rehabilitation will be based on protocols that will include restrictions on movements and activities to allow for proper healing and to prevent complications including avoiding lifting and limitation range of motion. Treatment will include reducing muscle guarding and pain, improving scar mobility, improving range of motion, restoring normal muscle activation, restoring normal joint mechanics, and focusing on functional strengthening once cleared for each stage in your rehabilitation. Your PT will give you a home exercise program to help you progress as quickly as possible.