Shoulder
Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
During shoulder replacement surgery, all or part of your problem shoulder is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. The prosthesis replaces the rough, worn parts of your shoulder with smooth metal and plastic parts.
Are You a Candidate for Shoulder Replacement?
You may be a candidate for total shoulder replacement if you’re dealing with chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited mobility that hasn’t responded to non-surgical treatments like medication, physical therapy, or injections. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, severe fractures, or rotator cuff arthropathy can lead to joint damage that affects your quality of life. If shoulder pain interferes with your ability to sleep, dress, work, or perform simple tasks, it may be time to consider surgical intervention.
Benefits of Total Shoulder Replacement
Total shoulder replacement is a proven surgical solution designed to restore function and relieve pain in a damaged shoulder joint. By replacing the worn-out ball and socket of the shoulder with smooth artificial components, this procedure allows for improved motion, reduced stiffness, and the ability to return to everyday activities with less discomfort. Many patients experience long-term relief and regain independence in both personal and professional activities.
Why Choose Granite Orthopaedics
At Granite Orthopaedics, you receive compassionate, personalized care from an experienced team that specializes in joint replacement procedures. With advanced diagnostic tools and surgical expertise, you benefit from a streamlined process designed to optimize outcomes. Whether you’re being seen in Prescott or Prescott Valley, you have access to comprehensive care in a convenient, welcoming environment. From pre-surgical planning through postoperative recovery, you’re supported every step of the way. The practice’s strong focus on patient education and post-surgical rehabilitation helps ensure long-term success and improved quality of life.
Before Your Surgery
You will most likely arrive at the hospital on the morning of the surgery. Be sure to follow all of your doctor’s instructions on preparing for surgery.
- You should stop eating or drinking 10 hours before surgery.
- If you take a daily medication, ask if you should still take it the morning of surgery.
- At the hospital, your temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure will be checked.
- An IV (intravenous) line may be started to provide fluids and medications needed during surgery.
The Surgical Procedure
When the surgical team is ready, you’ll be taken to the operating room. There you’ll be given anesthesia to help you sleep through surgery.
Your surgeon may replace just the ball (partial replacement) or both the ball and the socket (total replacement).
An incision about six inches long is made from your collarbone to your arm. Once the new joint is in place, your surgeon closes the incision with surgical staples or sutures (stitches).
When to Call Your Doctor
Once at home, call your doctor if you have any of the symptoms below:
- An increase in pain not relieved by your pain medicine
- Unusual redness, heat, or drainage at the incision site
- Fever over 101.0°F
After Your Surgery
After surgery, you’ll be sent to the PACU (postanesthesia care unit). When you are fully awake, you’ll be moved to your room. The nurses will give you medications to ease your pain. Soon, health care providers will help you get up and moving. You may also have physical therapy after surgery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Make sure to set up a comfortable recovery area with essentials within reach. Clear pathways to reduce fall risks, and consider arranging for help with daily tasks during the first few weeks.
You should not eat or drink after midnight on the night before your surgery, unless instructed otherwise by your care team.
Yes, but only under direct instruction from your surgeon or primary care provider. It is not advised to stop these medications without medical guidance.
It can be either, depending on your health and specific surgical plan. Some patients are discharged the same day, while others stay overnight for observation.
The procedure typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours.
Physical therapy usually begins within a few days after surgery, either while you're still in the hospital or shortly after discharge.
Discomfort is expected but is manageable with prescribed pain medication and gradual physical therapy. Pain decreases significantly as healing progresses.
Many patients can return to desk jobs within 4 to 6 weeks. Driving is usually permitted once you're off pain medication and can safely control the vehicle.
Yes, low-impact activities like swimming or golf are generally allowed after your shoulder has healed, typically within 4 to 6 months. High-impact sports should be discussed with your surgeon.
