Shoulder Replacement

What is a Shoulder Replacement?

‍Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where a damaged shoulder joint is replaced with an artificial implant. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe shoulder pain and stiffness caused by advanced arthritis, rotator cuff tears, fractures, or other degenerative conditions that impact daily activities. During the surgery, the damaged parts of the shoulder joint, including the humeral head and glenoid (socket), are replaced with prosthetic components made of metal and plastic.

The primary goals of shoulder replacement are to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore shoulder function. The procedure can be performed through traditional open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques, depending on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s expertise. Advances in surgical techniques and implant designs have made shoulder replacement a reliable solution for managing debilitating shoulder conditions.

Benefits of Shoulder Replacement

‍The benefits of shoulder replacement are life-changing, especially for patients experiencing chronic shoulder pain and limited mobility:

• Pain Relief: Reduces or eliminates pain caused by joint damage.
• Improved Range of Motion: Restores shoulder movement, making daily activities easier.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Enables a return to normal activities and hobbies.
• Durability: Modern implants are designed to last 15 to 20 years or more.
• Minimally Invasive Options: When suitable, smaller incisions promote faster recovery and less scarring.

These benefits make shoulder replacement an excellent option for individuals seeking to regain independence and enjoy a pain-free lifestyle.

Who is a Candidate for Shoulder Replacement?

Shoulder replacement is recommended for patients with advanced shoulder arthritis, significant joint damage, or severe pain that has not improved with conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections. Ideal candidates often experience:

• Persistent pain that interferes with sleep and daily activities.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the shoulder.
• Difficulty lifting the arm or performing overhead movements.
• Joint deformities or chronic instability.

A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, helps determine the extent of joint damage and the suitability of the patient for surgery. While shoulder replacement is commonly performed in older adults, younger patients with debilitating shoulder conditions may also benefit, particularly if their pain and mobility issues significantly affect their quality of life.

Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

‍Recovery from shoulder replacement typically involves a combination of hospital care, physical therapy, and at-home rehabilitation to ensure optimal healing and functional recovery.

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days after surgery.
• Early Mobilization: Gentle shoulder movements begin within the first few days post-surgery.
• Physical Therapy: Starts shortly after surgery to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Return to Activities: Most patients resume normal activities like driving and light household tasks within 6 to 12 weeks.

Full recovery may take several months, but the long-term benefits are substantial. Patients can expect significant pain relief, improved shoulder function, and a restored quality of life. Proper adherence to post-operative instructions and a structured rehabilitation plan is essential for achieving the best results and extending the lifespan of the implant.

Why Choose Dr. Karan Raj Jaggi for Shoulder Replacement?

‍Dr. Karan Raj Jaggi is a renowned orthopaedic surgeon with extensive expertise in joint replacement surgeries, including shoulder replacement. He specializes in advanced surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive approaches and custom-fit implants, to ensure precise results and faster recovery for his patients.As the Chief Medical Officer at Osso, Dr. Jaggi leads a team of skilled professionals dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive orthopaedic care. From pre-operative consultation to post-surgery rehabilitation, Dr. Jaggi’s patient-focused approach ensures exceptional outcomes for individuals seeking relief from chronic shoulder pain and mobility issues. With a reputation for excellence and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Jaggi is the trusted choice for shoulder replacement in India.