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Shoulder Replacement
Living with chronic shoulder pain that limits your daily activities can be debilitating. Shoulder replacement surgery may be an option to restore your range of motion and relieve pain. At OrthoKnox, we specialize in advanced shoulder replacement procedures. We utilize the latest techniques and implants to provide long-lasting pain relief and improved shoulder function. Whether you're dealing with arthritis, rotator cuff tears, or other shoulder conditions, we are committed to helping you regain your independence and quality of life. Learn more about shoulder replacement surgery here.
Learn about our expert team of orthopaedic specialists.
Understanding Shoulder Replacement
Chronic shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life. If you've exhausted conservative treatment options, a total shoulder replacement may be the solution. At OrthoKnox, our experienced orthopedic surgeons specialize in performing advanced shoulder replacement procedures.
The Shoulder
Your shoulder is a large ball-and-socket joint where three bones come together:
- The humerus, or upper arm bone
- The scapula, or shoulder blade
- The clavicle, or collarbone
Keeping all of these bones in place, while still allowing ample movement, are the soft tissue and connective tissue components of your joint, including your:
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Muscles
- Cartilage
- Synovium
The cartilage and synovium play key roles in allowing your bones to glide smoothly across one another to facilitate movement.
What is shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged shoulder joint with an artificial implant. The surgery involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage and replacing it with a prosthetic component made of metal and plastic. This implant is designed to mimic the natural movement of the shoulder joint, allowing for an improved range of motion and reduced pain.
Why would I need shoulder replacement surgery?
Shoulder replacement surgery is typically considered for individuals experiencing chronic shoulder pain and limited mobility that hasn't responded to conservative treatments. Common conditions that may lead to shoulder replacement include:
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common reason for shoulder replacement. It is a degenerative joint disease that breaks down cartilage, causing pain and stiffness. As you age, the tissues of your shoulder often begin to degenerate. The labrum becomes frayed or torn. The articular cartilage can become damaged or worn, even worn away completely down to exposed bone. Bone spurs begin to develop, worsening the pain and further limiting the motion of the shoulder. This may also cause swelling and stiffness in the joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that attacks the synovial membrane and articular cartilage around your shoulder joint, rendering it painful and stiff.
- Rotator cuff tears: Patients with chronic, irreparable rotator cuff tears often progress to develop a particular type of arthritis known as Cuff-Tear Arthropathy. These patients often are some of the more debilitated shoulder patients with extreme loss of motion and strength.
- Severe shoulder fractures: In some cases, fractures may not heal properly and require shoulder replacement.
- Avascular necrosis: This condition occurs when the bone tissue dies due to insufficient blood supply.
What are the types of shoulder replacement?
At OrthoKnox, we use the latest techniques for total shoulder replacements. There are two basic designs of implants, depending on the specific condition of the patient’s shoulder, including the severity of arthritis and the condition of the rotator cuff. The surgeon will discuss and choose which option is right for you:
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- Anatomic (or Conventional) Total Shoulder Replacement: In this procedure, your surgeon replaces the damaged head of your humerus with a metal ball and replaces your shoulder socket with a plastic implant. We typically recommend the anatomic replacement surgery when your rotator cuff is still intact and the shoulder is still well balanced. This type of shoulder replacement is anatomic, which means your shoulder is restored back to its original design.
- Reverse Shoulder Replacement: If your rotator cuff is also damaged, an anatomic design will not restore the motion and function of your shoulder. Your surgeon then chooses a Reverse shoulder replacement. The “Reverse” design effectively switches the position of the ball and socket, which allows your deltoid muscle to raise your arm instead of your rotator cuff. Therefore, even patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears can have pain-free function and motion to their shoulder.
What are the benefits of shoulder replacement?
Shoulder replacement surgery can significantly improve:
- Pain relief
- Range of motion
- Ability to perform daily activities
- Quality of life
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery involves physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. The rehabilitation process may take several months.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Knoxville, TN and the Knox County Area
Schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists to discuss your treatment options and learn more about the benefits of total shoulder replacement. Call us at 865.251.3030 to schedule or request an appointment online.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
EXCELLENT. I can't say enough good things...[My provider] was kind, caring, compassionate, knowledgeable, explained my options now and in the future…Very personable. Any patient would be extremely blessed to have him as your provider. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
— J.R.
The staff and the doctors are friendly and caring. They listen to what you have to say and answer your questions so that you understand. I highly recommend ORTHOKNOX!
— S.W.
My son suffered a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus and broken cartilage in the high school football playoffs last season. Dr.Hovis performed surgery and my son was able to play the first game of the season this year! Dr. Hovis was great! We appreciate him so much!
— L.A.
Excellent experience. Mike took great care of me and was very thorough helping me figure out a complicated problem. 10/10 would recommend.
— S.G.
Neil is patient, responds to all my questions, provides objective options and delivers compassionate care. Never once did I feel rushed or uninformed.
— K.U.
My physical therapist was knowledgeable and personable and made me feel at ease throughout the entire session. I appreciated the thorough explanation of the treatment plan and the clear instructions on how to continue the exercises at home. I highly recommend this physical therapist to anyone needing care.
— W.C.
OrthoKnox is an excellent place. I had total knee replacement 3 weeks ago, and I am recovering beautifully. All my friends and family cannot believe how far I’ve come in just 3 weeks. The staff is very kind, caring and take the time to ensure that all my concerns, fears and questions are resolved. Dr. Hovis and his PA, Neil Stoner, are the best.
— P.S.
Instantly felt at ease and reassured with my daughter’s care. Professional, informative and great bedside manner!
— M.P.
Everyone here has been amazing since first coming in through diagnosis, surgery, and now the recovery phase. Couldn't recommend these people enough.
— D.I.
All the doctors and staff at OrthoKnox including those in the physical therapy department, are very caring, and competent. I have been very satisfied with both the surgery outcome as well as the recovery. One nice thing is there is very little wait time after you arrive at your appointed time.
— G.V.
Very friendly and prompt! Always a good experience at this office. Lovely staff!
— R.B.
Laura has been great! She has been extremely friendly and professional at every visit. She has helped me make substantial improvement in my injury.
— W.O.
Delightful, helpful, encouraging, professional group. I am very grateful for their kindness.
— G.M.
Dr. Hovis has taken care of me the past 12 years. Started out with knee surgery and later in life with a shoulder that needed an injection. I would never go anywhere else because he is the best, and he cares. My last visit a couple of months ago was like seeing a family member again. You’re in good hands here.
— J.S.
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