Shoulder replacement surgery, a medical procedure that entails the removal of damaged shoulder parts and their substitution with prosthetic components, aims to mitigate pain and enhance shoulder joint mobility.
If you’re asking yourself if shoulder replacement surgery is worth it, begin by learning more about the procedure, including advancements in both surgical options and pain management, and then begin weighing the pros and cons.
In this blog post I will discuss more about shoulder replacement surgery, including the new and innovative Precision Shoulder Replacement and why it may be worth it for you.
Understanding the Need for Shoulder Replacement Surgery
This surgery emerges as a viable option for individuals enduring persistent shoulder pain and mobility decline, particularly when less invasive treatments fail to offer relief. It’s primarily recommended for mitigating discomfort stemming from conditions like arthritis, fractures, or rotator cuff tear arthropathy, especially when other therapeutic avenues prove ineffective.
Experiencing pain that disrupts your sleep or hinders your ability to engage in everyday activities signals the need to consult a shoulder specialist. As a leading shoulder surgeon in Richmond, VA, I can help determine if this procedure aligns with your health requirements.
Assessing Shoulder Replacement Surgery’s Value
Benefits Overview
Shoulder replacement surgery stands out for its potential to significantly alleviate shoulder pain. For most qualified patients, this is a very worth while procedure. Understanding the procedure’s outcomes is essential for making an informed decision.
Common Reasons for Surgery
Osteoarthritis, characterized by cartilage deterioration within the joint, ranks as a prevalent cause for undergoing shoulder replacement. This condition, along with others necessitates the surgical intervention to restore joint function and relieve pain.
Eligibility for Surgery
Candidates for this surgery typically include those who haven’t found pain relief through conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, injections or anti-inflammatory drugs. Signs that surgery might be necessary include persistent pain that affects daily activities and a noticeable decrease in shoulder strength and mobility.
Although the procedure is commonly performed on individuals aged 60 to 80, candidacy really depends on a patient’s overall health and the severity of their shoulder issue. Consulting with a shoulder surgery specialist is crucial for a precise assessment.
Post-Surgery Expectations
Surgical Details
The procedure involves replacing damaged shoulder components with prosthetic implants, aiming for pain relief and enhanced joint function. It’s usually an outpatient surgery, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Precision Shoulder Replacement offers an advanced approach to shoulder replacement, with the goal of making the procedure and results worth it.
Pain Management and Recovery
The primary goal is to address chronic pain unmanageable by other means. Recovery entails physical therapy to regain shoulder motion and strength, with most patients resuming normal activities within three to six months. EXPAREL distinguishes itself in the realm of local anesthesia, offering unique benefits over alternatives like Bupivacaine HCl and Lidocaine. This is why it’s a key component of my Precision Shoulder Replacement technique. EXPAREL has shown to significantly reduce pain, lower opioid consumption, and shorten hospital stays, proving its efficacy in managing post-surgery pain.
Life After Surgery
Patients typically enjoy improved mobility and a significant quality of life enhancement post-recovery, returning to their favorite activities without the burden of shoulder pain.
Deciding on Shoulder Replacement Surgery
The choice to proceed with shoulder replacement surgery is deeply personal and should be made after thorough consultation with a specialist. Consider your pain severity, mobility issues, overall health, and life goals. For many, this surgery offers a promising path to pain relief and enhanced mobility, marking a transformative phase in their lives.
Should you contemplate shoulder replacement surgery in light of your pain and limitations? For numerous individuals, the response is overwhelmingly positive, though it ultimately hinges on each person’s distinct circumstances and medical diagnosis.
The prospect of living free from chronic shoulder pain and regaining mobility can be profoundly life-altering. Nonetheless, it’s vital to grasp the complete scenario and consult with a shoulder specialist to evaluate the pros and cons before reaching a decision.
To explore whether shoulder replacement surgery aligns with your health goals, or to learn more about the Precision Shoulder Replacement procedure feel free to contact my office for a consultation.
Together, we can navigate your shoulder pain and determine the most suitable course of action for you.
