What is Shoulder Replacement?
A shoulder replacement is when damaged areas of the upper arm bone’s ball and the shoulder blades socket are removed and replaced with metal and plastic implants.
Types of Shoulder Replacements
- Total shoulder replacement. Both the ball and socket are removed and replaced. The new ball and socket implants resemble the natural shape of the original bones.
- Reverse total shoulder replacement. Both the ball and socket are replaced, but the implants are in reversed positions. The ball is instead placed on the shoulder blade and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone. This option is generally preferred when there is severe damage to the rotator cuff.
- Partial shoulder replacement. Only the ball of the upper arm bone is replaced. This option is selected when there is only damage to the ball portion of the socket.
What Conditions May Warrant a Shoulder Replacement?
- Osteoarthritis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Fractures
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Osteonecrosis
Potential Replacement Complications
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Implant loosening
- Rotator cuff failure
- Nerve damage
- Blood clots
- Infection
Specialists in the Twin Cities
If you have had a shoulder replacement please contact us today to set up your appointment with a Minnesota physical therapist. We have physical therapy clinics located in Minneapolis and Edina.
