Shoulder Joint Replacement
Arthritis of the shoulder can cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joint. The condition is treated by removing the damaged articulating parts and replacing them with prostheses. Mark Adickes, M.D. provides expert diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatments for the shoulder including shoulder joint replacement in Texas. Mark Adickes, M.D. also provides highly specialized care during and after surgery. Contact Mark Adickes, M.D.’s team for an appointment today!
What is Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Total shoulder replacement surgery is performed to relieve symptoms of severe shoulder pain and disability due to arthritis. In this surgery, the damaged articulating parts of the shoulder joint are removed and replaced with artificial prostheses. Replacement of both the humeral head and the socket is called a total shoulder replacement.
Shoulder Anatomy
The shoulder is a highly movable body joint that allows various movements of the arm. It is a ball and socket joint, where the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) articulates with the socket of the scapula (shoulder blade), which is called the glenoid. The two articulating surfaces of the bones are covered with cartilage, which prevents friction between the moving bones. The cartilage is lubricated by synovial fluid. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.
What is Arthritis?
When the cartilage is damaged, the two bones rub against each other causing pain, swelling and stiffness of the joint. This condition is called arthritis. There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear brought about by old age) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disease) are two forms of arthritis.
What are the Indications for Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Total shoulder joint replacement is a surgery indicated for conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis when medication, injections, physical therapy, and activity changes do not help relieve pain. Your doctor recommends surgery when you have the following symptoms:
- Severe shoulder pain that restricts daily activities
- Moderate to severe pain during rest
- Weakness and/or loss of motion
Preparation for Shoulder Joint Replacement
To decide whether total shoulder replacement is a good option for you, your doctor will evaluate your condition thoroughly.
Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical examination of your shoulder to assess the extent of mobility and pain. Imaging tests such as X-ray or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may also be performed.
Shoulder Joint Replacement Procedure
The surgery is performed under regional or general anesthesia. An incision is made over the affected shoulder and the underlying muscles are separated to expose the shoulder joint. The surgery may be performed as an open surgery, where a large incision is made, or minimally invasive, where small incisions are made to insert an arthroscope (a thin tube with a camera and light source) and surgical tools.
The upper arm bone (humerus) is separated from the glenoid socket of the shoulder bone. The arthritic or damaged humeral head is cut and the humerus bone is hollowed out and filled with cement. A metal ball with a stem is gently press-fit into the humerus.
Next, the arthritic part of the socket is prepared. The plastic glenoid component is fixed in the shoulder bone.
After the artificial components are implanted, the joint capsule is stitched, and the wound is closed.
Postoperative Care for Shoulder Joint Replacement
After the surgery, medications and antibiotics are prescribed to control pain and prevent infection. Your arm may be secured in a sling or cast. The rehabilitation program includes physical therapy, which is started soon after the surgery and is very important to strengthen and provide mobility to the shoulder. You may be able to perform gentle daily activities two to six weeks after surgery.
Risks and Complications of Shoulder Joint Replacement
As with any major surgery, there may be potential risks involved:
- Anesthetic complications such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting
- Infection of the wound
- Dislocation, requiring repeat surgery
- Damage to blood vessels, nerves or muscles
- Failure to relieve pain
- Pulmonary embolism
- Wear and tear of the prosthesis
If you would like additional information on the treatment of shoulder conditions or to learn more about shoulder joint replacement, please contact Mark Adickes, M.D., serving the communities of Texas.
Shoulder Joint Replacement Recovery Timeline
Recovery after shoulder replacement varies by patient, but most individuals can expect:
- First few days: monitored recovery and assisted movement
- 2–6 weeks: use of a sling and gradual return of motion
- 6–12 weeks: improved strength and daily function
- 3–6 months: continued recovery and increased mobility
Full recovery can take several months, with ongoing improvement through physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Benefits of Shoulder Joint Replacement
- Significant reduction in shoulder pain
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Enhanced ability to perform daily activities
- Long-term improvement in quality of life
- Durable results, with many implants lasting 15 years or more
Why Choose Mark S. Adickes, MD for Shoulder Replacement?
Patients choose Dr. Adickes for his expertise in sports medicine and shoulder procedures. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and former professional athlete, he understands the importance of restoring function and performance. His approach focuses on precise surgical techniques, individualized care plans, and helping patients safely return to their daily activities.
Serving Houston and Surrounding Communities
Conveniently located in Houston, TX, this practice serves patients throughout the region, including Katy, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Memorial, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Joint Replacement
How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
The procedure typically takes about 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Most shoulder replacements last 15 years or longer, depending on activity level and overall health.
Is shoulder replacement surgery painful?
Some discomfort is expected after surgery, but pain is typically managed with medication and improves as healing progresses.
When can I return to normal activities?
Many patients return to light daily activities within a few weeks, with full recovery taking several months.
What conditions require shoulder replacement?
Common conditions include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, severe fractures, and rotator cuff-related joint damage.
Is shoulder replacement surgery safe?
It is generally considered safe and effective, with a high success rate when performed by an experienced surgeon.
If chronic shoulder pain is limiting your mobility or quality of life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Adickes to learn whether shoulder joint replacement is the right treatment option for you.
