Shoulder Replacement Surgery

If non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications or lifestyle changes haven't helped your shoulder pain, shoulder replacement surgery may be an option. A full shoulder replacement is called total shoulder arthroplasty. It’s often recommended for people with advanced arthritis or serious shoulder injuries. At Banner Health, our expert orthopedic surgeons provide the care you need to feel better and move more easily. 

What happens during shoulder replacement surgery?

Shoulder replacement surgery removes the damaged parts of your shoulder joint and replaces them with artificial components. The surgeon removes the ball (top of the upper arm bone, or humerus) and the socket (part of the shoulder blade, or glenoid) and replaces them with prosthetic parts made of metal, plastic or both. 

This procedure can reduce pain and improve how well your shoulder moves. It can make everyday tasks easier and improve your quality of life.  

Different types of shoulder replacement surgery

The type of surgery you need depends on your condition, joint damage and symptoms. Your doctor will recommend the best option to help preserve as much of your natural joint as possible. 

Partial shoulder replacement (hemiarthroplasty): Only one part of the shoulder joint—either the ball or the socket - is replaced. The ball (humeral head) is most commonly replaced. 

Anatomic total shoulder replacement: Both the ball and socket are replaced with artificial parts that mimic the natural shape of the joint. This is best for patients with a working rotator cuff and is often used to treat arthritis. 

Reverse total shoulder replacement: The ball and socket are reversed—the ball is attached to the shoulder blade, and the socket is placed on the arm bone. This helps people with severe rotator cuff damage or weak shoulder muscles move their arm using the deltoid muscle. It’s the most common type of shoulder replacement. 

Conditions that may require shoulder replacement

Your doctor may recommend shoulder replacement to treat: 

• Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on cartilage over time 
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation that damages the joint 
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis that develops after a fracture or dislocation 
• Rotator cuff tear: Large tears that damage cartilage and cause arthritis (rotator cuff arthropathy) 
• Avascular necrosis: Bone damage from poor blood supply 
• Severe fractures: Breaks in the upper arm bone that affect joint function 

Why shoulder replacement surgery may help

Shoulder replacement can offer many benefits: 

• Pain relief: Chronic pain may go away or significantly improve 
• Improved movement: Better range of motion for daily tasks 
• Better function: Makes activities like grooming, dressing and cooking easier 
• Stronger shoulder: Physical therapy can build strength and stability 
• Higher quality of life: Return to activities you enjoy with less pain and more independence 

How to prepare for shoulder replacement surgery

You’ll have a medical evaluation with your surgical team, which may include a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or a CT scan. 

Here are ways to prepare: 

• Tell your doctor about health conditions, allergies or past surgeries 
• Share your full list of medications and supplements 
• Follow instructions on stopping certain medicines or fasting 
• Stop smoking, as it can slow healing and increase risks 
• Plan for help at home after surgery 
• Make your home easier to move around with limited mobility 
• Ask questions or discuss worries with your care team 

Being prepared helps you have a smoother recovery and better results. 

What to expect during shoulder replacement surgery

You’ll get general anesthesia (to sleep) and possibly a nerve block to numb your shoulder. Your surgeon makes an incision near the joint, removes damaged bone and cartilage and places the prosthetic parts. These are either cemented in or press-fit into place. 

The incision is closed and bandaged, and you’ll move to recovery where your team monitors you and manages any pain. 

Surgery usually takes a few hours.

What recovery looks like after surgery

Most people go home the same day. Some may stay up to three days depending on their health and type of surgery. 

• Expect some pain and discomfort, which your team will help manage 
• Your arm may be in a sling or brace for protection 
• You’ll get instructions on how and when to move your shoulder 
• Physical therapy starts soon after surgery and continues for weeks or months 
• At-home exercises help prevent stiffness and support healing 

Recovery takes about eight weeks for most people. You may regain full strength and function over several months. Most people can return to daily activities within 2 to 6 weeks and more active tasks within 10 to 12 weeks. High-impact sports may take 6 months to resume. 

Regular follow-up visits help track your healing and give you a chance to ask questions or adjust your plan as needed. 

Risks and complications to know about

Shoulder replacement is generally safe, but like any surgery, there are risks: 

• Infection 
• Bleeding 
• Blood clots 
• Nerve or blood vessel injury 
• Implant problems (loosening, dislocation, wear). These issues may require revision surgery to address. 
• Stiffness 
• Allergic reaction 
• Fracture 
• Ongoing pain or limited function 

Talk to your surgeon about your individual risk factors and how they’ll work to minimize them.

Long-term outlook

Most patients enjoy long-term relief from pain and better shoulder function. More than 90% of shoulder replacements last at least 10 years. Newer techniques and materials are making surgeries even more successful. 

Your outcome depends on your health, how well you follow instructions, and your commitment to rehab. Staying in touch with your care team helps ensure the best results. 

Why choose Banner Health for shoulder replacement?

At Banner Health, our orthopedic specialists use advanced techniques and technology to deliver safe, effective shoulder replacements. From personalized treatment plans to dedicated physical therapy, we focus on helping you heal and return to the activities you love. 

Next steps for treating your shoulder pain

If shoulder pain is making daily life harder and other treatments haven’t worked, shoulder replacement may be the answer. A Banner Health orthopedic specialist can help you decide what’s best for your situation. 

The first step is diagnosis. Schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help you reduce pain, regain motion and return to the life you enjoy.