What Is Shoulder Replacement?
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that allows a wide range of movement. Over time, arthritis or damage following an injury can affect the smooth joint surfaces, causing pain, stiffness and difficulty using the arm.
Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty or joint replacement, involves replacing damaged parts of the joint with artificial components. It may be recommended when non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief. Subacromial decompression in Edinburgh is a different procedure, usually used for certain tendon or impingement-related symptoms rather than advanced arthritis. I will assess your individual condition carefully before recommending treatment.
What Does a Shoulder Replacement Surgery Involve?
Shoulder replacement surgery is performed under an anaesthetic, and the exact operation is tailored to the condition of your shoulder. In a conventional replacement, I replace the damaged ball at the top of the upper arm bone with a metal component. Depending on the arthritis and condition of the socket, I may also replace the socket surface with a durable plastic component.
In some circumstances, resurfacing shoulder replacement or reverse shoulder replacement may be more appropriate. I will explain the options, expected benefits and limitations before surgery.
Unlike subacromial decompression in Edinburgh, which is generally undertaken through keyhole surgery, shoulder replacement requires a larger incision to access and reconstruct the joint. I will discuss your planned procedure, hospital stay and rehabilitation programme in detail.
General Advice Following Surgery
Your Hospital Stay
You will usually stay in hospital for several days after shoulder replacement surgery. In some cases, this may be around a week, depending on your general health, pain control and progress after the operation.
Wearing a Sling
Following surgery, your arm will be supported in a sling. This is primarily for comfort, and I will advise you on when and how you can remove it safely.
Physiotherapy and Exercises
A physiotherapist will see you in hospital to provide guidance on safe movement and early exercises. Outpatient physiotherapy will be arranged after discharge to support your recovery. Information for subacromial decompression in Edinburgh may differ, as recovery plans depend on the procedure performed.
Everyday Activities
Your arm will be painful initially, and you are likely to be quite one-handed for the first three to four weeks. This can affect dressing, washing, cooking and other day-to-day tasks. As your pain improves, you should gradually be able to use your arm more comfortably.
Driving and Return to Activity
Driving and most light activities are often possible around four to six weeks after surgery, provided you can safely control the vehicle. Your strength and movement will continue to improve over a longer period. I, your GP or your physiotherapist can advise you according to your recovery.
Possible Complications
All operations carry some degree of risk. Serious complications after shoulder replacement are uncommon, but it is important that you understand them before deciding whether surgery is right for you. Your individual risks will be discussed during your consultation at Fife Shoulder Surgery. Risks associated with a replacement can differ from those of subacromial decompression in Edinburgh, as this is a more extensive joint reconstruction procedure.
Anaesthetic Complications
There are general risks associated with anaesthesia, which will be discussed with you by the anaesthetic team before surgery.
Infection
Infection can occur in the wound or around the replacement joint. This may require antibiotics and, on rare occasions, further surgery.
Continued Pain
or Stiffness
Although the main aim of surgery is to reduce pain, some people may experience ongoing discomfort or stiffness following their operation.
Nerve or Blood
Vessel Injury
There is a small risk of injury to nerves or blood vessels around the shoulder during surgery. In some cases, a shoulder replacement may require further treatment or revision surgery in the future.
Shoulder Surgery Serving Edinburgh and Fife
NHS Consultations
Queen Margaret Hospital
Whitefield Road,
Dunfermline,
KY12 0SU
Victoria Hospital
Hayfield Road,
Kirkcaldy,
KY2 5AH
Private Consultations
Spire Shawfair Park Hospital
10 Easter Shawfair,
Edinburgh,
EH22 1FE
Spire Murrayfield Hospital
122 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh,
EH12 6UD
Questions about shoulder replacement surgery
When is shoulder replacement surgery recommended for severe shoulder pain?
Shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended when severe pain, stiffness and loss of movement caused by arthritis or joint damage continue despite non-surgical treatment. This can include physiotherapy, pain relief, activity modification or injections. A specialist assessment and imaging help determine whether replacement is appropriate.
What shoulder conditions can be treated with a shoulder replacement?
Shoulder replacement can treat advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis following injury, fracture-related joint damage and some complex shoulder conditions. Reverse shoulder replacement may also be considered where there is severe arthritis alongside major rotator cuff tendon damage.
What is the difference between a total and reverse shoulder replacement?
A total shoulder replacement replaces the damaged ball of the upper arm bone and, where needed, the socket surface, while retaining the normal ball-and-socket arrangement. A reverse shoulder replacement changes this arrangement, placing the ball on the socket side, and can be helpful when the rotator cuff is badly damaged.
How do I know if I need a shoulder replacement?
You may need an assessment if shoulder pain affects sleep, dressing, washing, work or everyday activities, and you have increasing stiffness or reduced movement. A Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon will review your symptoms, examination findings and X-rays or scans before discussing suitable treatment options.
What happens during shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement is performed under anaesthetic through an incision at the front of the shoulder. The damaged joint surfaces are removed or resurfaced and replaced with artificial components. The exact operation, including whether a standard, resurfacing or reverse replacement is used, depends on your joint and tendon condition.
What are the alternatives to shoulder replacement surgery?
Alternatives depend on the cause and severity of your symptoms. They may include physiotherapy, pain medication, anti-inflammatory treatment, steroid injections, activity changes or other shoulder operations. Subacromial decompression is used for selected impingement or tendon-related problems, rather than advanced shoulder arthritis.
How long does it take to recover from a shoulder replacement?
Recovery is gradual. You will usually wear a sling initially and begin guided exercises with a physiotherapist. Many people are fairly one-handed for around three to four weeks, while strength and movement continue to improve over several months. Your rehabilitation plan will be tailored to your procedure and progress.
When can I return to work, driving and exercise after shoulder replacement?
Driving and light activities are often possible at around four to six weeks, provided you can safely control the vehicle and are not restricted by pain or a sling. Return to work and exercise varies depending on your job, shoulder function and recovery. Your surgeon and physiotherapist can provide individual advice.
How successful is shoulder replacement surgery for relieving pain and improving movement?
Shoulder replacement surgery is commonly performed to reduce pain and improve daily function in people with advanced joint damage. Results vary according to the diagnosis, type of replacement, tendon condition and rehabilitation. Your surgeon will discuss realistic expected benefits and limitations for your individual shoulder.
How long does a shoulder replacement typically last?
Modern shoulder replacements are designed to provide long-term pain relief and function, but their lifespan varies between individuals. Activity levels, implant type, bone quality and the underlying shoulder condition can all affect durability. Some patients may require further treatment or revision surgery in the future.
Discuss Shoulder Replacement with Me
If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, stiffness or loss of movement, I can assess whether shoulder replacement surgery may be appropriate. I will take time to explain your condition, review imaging where needed and discuss realistic treatment goals.
To arrange a consultation with Fife Shoulder Surgery, please call 01313 162530 or email sunil.sharma2@nhs.scot. I can also advise whether another treatment, such as subacromial decompression in Edinburgh, may be more suitable for your shoulder problem.
