Shoulder Replacement

Intense shoulder joint pain can significantly impact your life, making even simple tasks a challenge. At the Orthopedic Institute of PA (OIP), we offer solutions for shoulder pain, including total, partial and reverse shoulder replacements. Together, we can help you experience pain-free living again.

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Is Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery Right for You?

Shoulder joint replacement surgery removes damaged bone and cartilage and replaces them with prosthetic components to restore function. You may be eligible for this surgery if you have severe shoulder pain that interferes with your sleep or daily functioning, such as showering or dressing. Surgery is usually a last resort treatment, as many doctors recommend trying conservative methods — such as medication, cortisone injections or physical therapy — before a replacement.

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We also care for many patients with other less common conditions.

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Shoulder Replacement Options

OIP offers three forms of shoulder joint replacement options, depending on your individual needs. A surgeon will work with you to discuss your options and help determine the correct method.

Total Shoulder Replacement
A total shoulder replacement involves inserting a plastic socket and a metal ball into your shoulder joint, replicating normal shoulder anatomy. This surgery is ideal for patients with intact rotator cuffs and osteoarthritis.
Partial Shoulder Replacement
If you have a damaged ball — also called the humeral head — in your shoulder joint, you may be suitable for a partial shoulder replacement. This procedure only replaces the ball and leaves the rest of the joint intact.
Reverse shoulder replacement
If you have a torn rotator cuff or one with severe cuff arthropathy, a surgeon may recommend a reverse shoulder replacement. This surgery reverses the usual ball-and-socket arrangement, so the metal ball attaches to the shoulder, and the socket prosthetic sits on the upper arm bone. Your body will then rely on the deltoid muscle instead of the cuff to lift your arm.

If necessary, advanced surgical solutions, including partial or full shoulder replacement, may be considered. Our team ensures patients understand their options and coverage before proceeding.

Benefits of Choosing OIP for Your Surgery

At OIP, we distinguish ourselves from general hospitals by our patient-focused approach and continuum of care. When you choose us, you can expect:

Personalized treatment plans: We understand that shoulder replacement surgery takes more than a one-size-fits-all approach. We take the time to get to know you and your goals, so we can focus on a treatment that helps you return to life, whether that’s golfing, swimming or lifting children.
Continuum of care: The OIP team guides you through every step of the replacement process, from preoperative imaging through physical therapy. We do everything under one roof, ensuring a seamless recovery plan.
State-of-the-art technology: We utilize the most advanced technology and surgical techniques for precision and accuracy. These minimally invasive approaches can lead to shorter recovery times and better patient outcomes.

Recovering From Shoulder Joint Replacement

We are passionate about the rapid recovery protocol because it can speed healing and get you back home faster. After the surgical anesthesia wears off, our team will help you start to move your shoulder again. We will briefly monitor you at our facility before allowing you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

You may have to wear a sling as your shoulder heals, but our excellent physical therapy team will help you navigate rehabilitation. During this strengthening phase, our team will work directly with your surgeon to customize your recovery plan.