Shoulder Surgery

Taking into consideration the pain level and range of motion of a patient with shoulder pain, many shoulder conditions can be managed effectively with nonsurgical techniques. There are many parts of the shoulder that can sustain damage from overuse or acute injuries. Some common shoulder conditions include:

• Dislocation
• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Rotator cuff tear
• Fractures
• Labral tear
• Separation
• Instability
• Frozen shoulder
• Shoulder impingement

Our physicians will thoroughly examine the condition of your shoulder and use diagnostic imaging to determine the severity as well as the need for surgery. You may need an X-ray or an MRI to evaluate the soft tissue damage. After an accurate diagnosis is made, the most effective treatment options can be offered.

Our physicians at Shenandoah Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine will help you determine the best treatment option for you. Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Rest
• Applying ice or heat
• Stretching exercises
• Steroid injections
• Physical therapy

Some patients with severe shoulder conditions, such as torn rotator cuff, shoulder impingement, or osteoarthritis may require surgical treatment. Shenandoah Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team of orthopedic specialist have extensive knowledge and clinical experience in surgical treatment of the shoulder. Most operative conditions can be treated with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery that offers reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery times.

• Hemiarthroplasty – is a shoulder replacement procedure that replaces the broken or worn humeral head with an artificial joint or prosthesis. The gleaned or socket of the shoulder is not replaced during this procedure.
• Total shoulder replacement – The typical total shoulder replacement involves replacing the arthritic joint surfaces with a highly polished metal ball attached to a stem, and a plastic socket. Patients with bone-on-bone osteoarthritis and intact rotator cuff tendons are good candidates for total shoulder replacement.
• Reverse total shoulder replacement – In reverse total shoulder replacement, the socket and metal ball are switched. A metal ball is attached to the shoulder bone and a plastic socket is attached to the upper arm bone. This allows the patient to use the deltoid muscle instead of the torn rotator cuff to lift the arm.

After shoulder replacement surgery, it is normal to feel pain and some discomfort which will be managed. Usually, patients stay in the hospital overnight. Pain management is a key component of your recovery, as reduced pain levels encourage faster recovery and healing.

The shoulder will need to be stabilized in a sling for 2-6 weeks after surgery. A well-planned rehabilitation program is vital to the success of a shoulder replacement. Gentle physical therapy will begin soon after your operation. You will learn exercises to be performed at home that will improve your flexibility and strengthen your shoulder.

As you begin to heal, the physical therapy regimen will become more challenging allowing you to fully regain the movement and range of motion, as well as strength in your new joint. In general, you can expect to be back to enjoying life and performing daily activities free of pain within 3-4 months of surgery.