Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Austin, TX – ATX Orthopedics
If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative joint conditions, shoulder replacement surgery may be the best option to restore function and alleviate discomfort. At ATX Orthopedics, Dr. Benjamin Amis specializes in total and partial shoulder replacement procedures, utilizing advanced techniques and high-quality prosthetic implants to help patients regain strength, mobility, and quality of life.
Whether due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, or post-traumatic injury, shoulder replacement surgery offers long-term relief and improved joint function for patients throughout Austin, TX.
What is Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a procedure that removes damaged or diseased portions of the shoulder joint and replaces them with artificial implants. This allows for smooth movement, pain relief, and improved shoulder function. The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint, consisting of the humeral head (ball) and the glenoid (socket). Depending on the severity of the damage, different types of shoulder replacement surgeries may be performed:
- Total Shoulder Replacement (Anatomic Shoulder Arthroplasty): Replaces both the ball (humeral head) and socket (glenoid) with prosthetic components.
- Reverse Shoulder Replacement: Recommended for patients with severe rotator cuff damage, this procedure reverses the anatomy of the joint, placing the ball component on the socket side and the socket component on the humerus.
- Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Only the humeral head (ball) is replaced, while the natural socket is preserved.
Who Needs Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
Patients who experience chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, and loss of motion that does not improve with non-surgical treatments may be candidates for shoulder replacement.
Common conditions that require this procedure include:
- Osteoarthritis: Age-related wear-and-tear of the joint cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that leads to chronic joint inflammation and damage.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis caused by previous shoulder injuries, fractures, or dislocations.
- Rotator Cuff Arthropathy: Severe joint deterioration due to an irreparable rotator cuff tear.
- Avascular Necrosis: A condition in which blood supply to the shoulder bone is disrupted, leading to bone deterioration.
Benefits of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
- Significant pain relief from chronic shoulder conditions.
- Improved range of motion and restored joint function.
- Better stability and strength in the shoulder.
- Long-lasting results, with modern implants designed to last 15-20 years or more.
- Enhanced quality of life, allowing patients to return to daily activities, including lifting, reaching, and sports.
The Shoulder Replacement Procedure
- Anesthesia: Patients are placed under general anesthesia or regional nerve block.
- Incision: A small incision is made on the front or top of the shoulder.
- Removal of Damaged Bone and Cartilage: The humeral head (ball) and/or glenoid (socket) are reshaped or removed.
- Implant Placement: A prosthetic ball-and-socket joint is implanted using a medical-grade cement or press-fit technique.
- Soft Tissue and Muscle Repair: Surrounding ligaments and tendons are repositioned to ensure joint stability.
- Closure and Recovery: The incision is closed, and patients are monitored in recovery.
What to Expect After Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery (Days 0-1)
- Pain management medications are provided, including multi-drug pain protocols to minimize discomfort.
- The arm is placed in a sling to support healing and prevent excessive movement.
- Patients are encouraged to begin passive range-of-motion exercises under supervision to prevent stiffness.
Weeks 1-6: Early Recovery Phase
- Physical therapy begins with gentle passive and assisted movements to regain mobility.
- Patients should avoid lifting objects heavier than 5 pounds and avoid overhead reaching.
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications help manage swelling and discomfort.
- Most patients regain the ability to perform light daily activities within 2-4 weeks.
Weeks 6-12: Strength and Function Restoration
- Gradual strengthening exercises begin, focusing on shoulder stability and endurance.
- Increased range-of-motion exercises help restore flexibility.
- Patients can return to office-based work and light activities by weeks 6-8.
- Driving may resume after 6-8 weeks, depending on individual progress.
Month 3 and Beyond: Full Recovery
- Patients can begin resistance training and low-impact sports.
- Full range of motion and strength improvements are noticeable by 3-6 months.
- High-impact activities like tennis or weightlifting should only resume with surgeon approval.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Q: How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
A: The procedure typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by a short post-anesthesia recovery period.
Q: When can I resume normal activities after surgery?
A: Most patients can resume light activities within 4-6 weeks and return to complete activity levels within 3-6 months.
Q: How long does a shoulder implant last?
A: Modern shoulder implants can last 15-20 years or longer, depending on the patient’s activity level and overall joint health.
Q: Is physical therapy necessary after shoulder replacement?
A: Yes, physical therapy is essential to regain strength, flexibility, and joint stability after surgery.
Q: Will I have full range of motion after a shoulder replacement?
A: Most patients achieve significant improvements in range of motion, but the extent of mobility depends on factors such as pre-surgical joint condition and rehabilitation efforts.
Q: What are the risks associated with shoulder replacement surgery?
A: Potential risks include infection, implant loosening, nerve injury, stiffness, or blood clots, though these are uncommon with proper post-surgical care.
Schedule Your Shoulder Replacement Consultation in Austin
Dr. Benjamin Amis and the team at ATX Orthopedics are dedicated to providing expert surgical care for shoulder joint conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, limited mobility, or joint deterioration, contact us to discuss your treatment options and schedule a personalized consultation.