Total shoulder arthroplasty, also called total shoulder replacement, is an orthopedic procedure that replaces the damaged bone in the ball and socket of your shoulder joint with artificial parts. The replacement material could be made from metal, plastic, or both. Total shoulder arthroplasty can decrease or eliminate pain, increase motion and function, and allow you to resume your daily activities that you’ve put off due to shoulder pain.

Causes of shoulder pain include:

• Osteoarthritis – Commonly referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis. It damages the cartilage that lubricates the joints to help them move smoothly.
• Rotator cuff disease – A muscle tear or a rundown rotator cuff.
• Fracture – A fracture could be caused by an injury and result in traumatic arthritis.

What is total shoulder arthroplasty?
When a surgeon performs a total shoulder replacement, the whole shoulder isn’t replaced. Instead, the surgeon replaces the ball at the top of the humerus with a metal ball. This is then attached to the remaining bone. And a plastic surface covers the socket. Total shoulder replacement surgery can relieve pain. It can improve mobility and function. The amount of pain relief and range of motion can’t be predicted because it depends on many factors.

Is total shoulder arthroplasty right for you?
The most common reason for a total shoulder replacement is to treat shoulder pain that can’t be treated with medication and non-invasive treatment like physical therapy. Damage to the shoulder can limit mobility, trigger pain, and cause stiffness. Your physician may recommend a total shoulder replacement when medication and other non-surgical treatment options don’t manage the pain or improve mobility.

Your physician will educate you on your options, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and make a recommendation. The decision to undergo total shoulder replacement is your decision with help from your family and your physician.

Total shoulder replacement is recommended in the following situations:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, changes in lifestyle, or physical therapy do not relieve pain
• Shoulder pain limits the ability to do daily activities, such as putting on a shirt
• Severe stiffness and limited mobility
• Shoulder pain persists even when sleeping or resting