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Treat a Shoulder Cuff Tear with Total Shoulder Replacement

A total shoulder replacement removes a damaged part of the shoulder, replacing it with an artificial implant, called a prosthesis. The goal of total shoulder replacement is to relieve pain and discomfort while restoring a normal range of motion. During a total shoulder replacement procedure, both the ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced.

Why Is a Total Shoulder Replacement Performed?

Our orthopaedic surgeons perform total shoulder replacement to treat shoulder pain and damage caused by a range of conditions, including:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Arthritis from an injury
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Humerus head fracture
  • Bone necrosis (bone loss and arthritis from poor blood supply)

Your orthopaedic provider may recommend this type of surgery if you have:

  • You have shoulder pain, even when not using your shoulder.
  • X-rays show severe damage to the shoulder joint with loss of cartilage and bone.
  • Shoulder pain or stiffness limits your daily activities.
  • Other treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and joint injections haven’t improved your symptoms or range of motion.

If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic shoulder pain or a recent injury, orthopaedic providers at UPMC are dedicated to providing exceptional treatment to help you regain mobility. If you would like to learn more about total shoulder replacement in Williamsport or Wellsboro, PA,

What to Expect with Total Shoulder Replacement at UPMC

A total shoulder replacement will be performed by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC. Depending on your personal preferences or overall health, you may have the option between regional or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will remove any damaged bone and cartilage before replacing the artificial implant.

Depending on your overall health, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. Most people are able to return home the same day of surgery. You’ll need to wear a sling for a period of time to keep your shoulder secure while you recover.

Total Shoulder Replacement Recovery

After you return home from surgery, the main aspects of your recovery process will be pain control with medication and physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder. Rehabilitation will help prevent stiffness in your joint and help restore a healthy range of motion. A full recovery from total shoulder replacement may take several months.

UPMC is a leader in orthopaedic care, providing total shoulder replacement in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA.