Living with shoulder arthritis can be debilitating, impacting daily activities and diminishing quality of life. Research shows that over 90% of individuals with shoulder arthritis experience reduced range of motion and chronic pain, which can worsen without appropriate treatment. For some, surgery becomes a necessary step in regaining mobility and alleviating persistent discomfort.
Dr. Brian Kelly provides expert orthopaedic care in PA, specializing in advanced treatments for shoulder arthritis. With years of experience, Dr. Kelly and his team are committed to helping you achieve the best outcome. If you're considering shoulder arthritis surgery or exploring treatment options, schedule an appointment today to create a personalized care plan.
Keep reading to learn more about when shoulder arthritis surgery may be necessary, what to expect during recovery, and how it can restore your mobility.
How Shoulder Arthritis Progresses
Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that worsens as the smooth cartilage covering the shoulder joint wears down. This cartilage cushions both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint, enabling smooth movement. When the cartilage deteriorates, it exposes the underlying arm bone and shoulder socket, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
Over time, severe shoulder arthritis can lead to significant cartilage loss, bone-on-bone contact, and joint damage. Early shoulder arthritis treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of this condition.
Worsening Symptoms as It Progresses
- Persistent shoulder pain during movement or rest, a common symptom of glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint
- Grinding or clicking sounds caused by cartilage surface erosion
- Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding soft tissues
- Weakness or instability, often linked to rotator cuff tendons or a large rotator cuff tear
Signs That Non-Surgical Treatments Are No Longer Effective
Common Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the four rotator cuff tendons and surrounding muscles
- Pain management through over-the-counter or prescription medications for short-term pain relief
- Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce inflammation and provide pain control
- Initial treatment, such as rest, ice, and modifications to daily activities
If non-surgical options fail to relieve severe pain or restore function, it may indicate the need for joint replacement surgery. Severe shoulder arthritis symptoms like chronic pain, loss of mobility, and continued instability in the joint may require surgical intervention.
When These Treatments Stop Working
- Persistent chronic shoulder pain despite consistent pain management
- Significant loss of mobility affecting daily activities and overall quality of life
- Weakness or instability in the shoulder joint, preventing normal use of the upper arm bone
- No improvement from physical therapy or corticosteroid injections
When non-surgical options are no longer effective, it’s important to consult orthopaedic surgeons to discuss advanced arthritis treatment options like shoulder joint replacement surgery or reverse total shoulder replacement.
Types of Shoulder Surgeries
Arthroscopy
Minimally Invasive Procedure for Mild to Moderate Arthritis
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat shoulder arthritis in its earlier stages. Small incisions allow a camera and surgical tools to remove damaged tissues, scar tissue, or bone spurs, reducing pain and improving mobility. This procedure preserves the ball and socket joint, offering faster recovery time and less disruption to normal tissue compared to more invasive surgeries.
Total Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery
For severe shoulder arthritis or rheumatic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, total shoulder replacement may be necessary. This joint replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged humeral head and shoulder socket with artificial components, such as a metal ball and a plastic socket, to restore function and alleviate pain.
The procedure is highly effective in treating advanced arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and cuff tear arthropathy. Reverse total shoulder replacement may be considered when rotator cuff tear or instability limits traditional repair options.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery Timeline After Shoulder Surgery
- Immediate Post-Surgery (First Few Days):
The arm is immobilized in a sling, and patients are monitored for complications like swelling or issues with blood supply.
- Early Recovery (Weeks 1-4):
Focus on reducing swelling, caring for the incision, and starting gentle passive movements guided by physical therapy.
- Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 4-12):
Physical therapy exercises are introduced to gradually restore strength and mobility in the shoulder joint.
- Long-Term Recovery (3-6 Months):
Ongoing therapy strengthens the rotator cuff tendons and surrounding muscles, while the joint regains full function.
Importance of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a vital role in rebuilding strength, reducing scar tissue, and improving mobility in the shoulder joint and shoulder blade. It can also help manage conditions like shoulder arthritis, treated due to inflammatory arthritis by improving joint surfaces. Skipping sessions or not following prescribed exercises can delay recovery.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
- Follow post-op instructions from your orthopaedic surgeon.
- Attend all physical therapy sessions and consistently perform home exercises.
- Avoid overexertion or activities that may stress the shoulder joint.
- Maintain a nutrient-rich diet to support the healing of surrounding soft tissues and normal tissue.
- Report unusual symptoms like severe pain or complications to your healthcare provider immediately.
By understanding your shoulder arthritis diagnosis and treatment options, you can make informed decisions to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and improve your quality of life. Whether through non-surgical treatments or shoulder joint replacement, effective care can help you regain comfort and function.
Take the Next Step Toward a Successful Recovery
Adhering to your post-operative care plan and maintaining open communication with your healthcare team are key to achieving the best possible recovery outcomes after shoulder replacement surgery. Dr. Brian Kelly and his team are here to provide expert guidance, whether you’ve undergone surgery, need to diagnose shoulder arthritis, or are preparing for a physical exam.
Schedule an appointment with us at our practice to ensure your recovery is on the right track. Whether you need personalized post-operative care or physical therapy services, our team is dedicated to helping you regain your strength and well-being. Contact us today to get started!
