Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement in Kennewick, WA
Shoulder Pain with Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Insights from Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates
Shoulder pain, is well, a major pain!
Shoulder pain is a common issue that can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, we specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder conditions, including offering advanced surgical solutions like reverse total shoulder replacement. This article will explore the causes of shoulder pain, the benefits of reverse total shoulder replacement, and the importance of fellowship-trained surgeons in performing these procedures.
Understanding Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can arise from various conditions, including injuries, arthritis, and referred pain from other areas of the body.
Common causes of shoulder pain include:
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or inflammation in the rotator cuff tendons can lead to pain and limited mobility.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness.
- Frozen Shoulder: Adhesive capsulitis results in severe stiffness and pain.
- Shoulder Impingement: Compression of the tendons or bursa in the shoulder can cause pain.
- Shoulder Trauma: Repetitive injuries from sports of severe overuse.
What is Total Shoulder Replacement?
In a total shoulder replacement, both the ball (head of the humerus) and the socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components. These components are typically made of metal and plastic, designed to mimic the natural movement of the shoulder.
Types of Shoulder Replacement:
Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure involves replacing the damaged ball and socket with implants that resemble the natural shape of the bones.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: In this approach, the ball and socket are reversed. The ball is attached to the shoulder blade, and the socket is attached to the upper arm bone. This method is often used when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
Why Undergo Shoulder Replacement?
Shoulder replacement surgery is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to alleviate symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Conditions that may necessitate this surgery include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Severe rotator cuff injuries
- Fractures
- Osteonecrosis
- Trauma
- Overuse
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement:
Reverse total shoulder replacement is a specialized surgical procedure designed to address severe shoulder pain and dysfunction, particularly in cases where the rotator cuff is damaged. Unlike traditional shoulder replacement, this procedure reverses the normal anatomy of the shoulder joint. The ball is placed on the socket side, and the socket is placed on the arm side.
Benefits of Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
- Improved Function: By relying on the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff, patients can achieve better arm movement and strength.
- Pain Relief: This procedure effectively reduces pain caused by rotator cuff tears and arthritis.
- Enhanced Stability: The reversed anatomy provides greater stability for the shoulder joint, reducing the risk of dislocation
When to See a Medical Provider
Shoulder pain is fairly common and is sometimes caused by a problem in another area of the body, but felt in the shoulder and upper back. It's important to see a medical provider if you're experiencing shoulder pain and any of the following symptoms:
- Fever lasting longer than 48 hours
- Heat around the shoulder joint
- Inability to move your shoulder, especially raising your arm above your head
- Lasting bruising and tenderness at/around the shoulder joint
- Pain lasting for more than a few weeks that does not improve with home remedies
The Role of Sports Medicine
Sports medicine plays a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing shoulder injuries, especially for athletes and active individuals. Specialists in sports medicine are trained to handle a wide range of shoulder conditions, from acute injuries to chronic issues like rotator cuff tears and shoulder instability. They work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include physical therapy, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical interventions when necessary.
The Importance of a Shoulder Fellowship Surgeon
A shoulder fellowship is an advanced training program that orthopedic surgeons can pursue after completing their residency, typically a year of specific and expert training. This specialized fellowship focuses on the complexities of shoulder and elbow surgery, providing surgeons with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in treating a wide range of shoulder conditions.
Here are some reasons why a shoulder fellowship is important from Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates:
- Expertise: Surgeons gain specialized skills in both surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder conditions.
- Advanced Techniques: Fellows learn the latest surgical techniques and technologies, improving patient outcomes.
- Research Opportunities: Fellowship programs often include research components, allowing surgeons to contribute to advancements in shoulder surgery.
- Comprehensive Training: Surgeons receive extensive training in diagnosing and managing complex shoulder issues, ensuring high-quality care for patients.
The Procedure:
The surgery usually involves the following steps:
- Preparation: Pre-surgical tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are conducted to assess the extent of joint damage.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
- Incision: A surgical incision is made to access the shoulder joint.
- Replacement: The damaged parts of the shoulder are removed and replaced with the artificial components.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a bandage is applied.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from shoulder replacement surgery involves several stages:
- Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days post-surgery.
- Physical Therapy: A crucial part of recovery, physical therapy helps restore movement and strength to the shoulder.
- Home Care: Patients need to follow specific instructions regarding wound care, medication, and activity restrictions.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, shoulder replacement carries potential risks, including infection, blood clots, and implant loosening or dislocation. However, these risks are relatively low, and most patients experience significant pain relief and improved function.
Total shoulder replacement can be a life-changing procedure for those suffering from severe shoulder conditions. By understanding the process, benefits, and risks, patients can make informed decisions and work closely with their healthcare providers to achieve the best possible outcomes.
If you have any questions or concerns about shoulder replacement surgery, feel free to call us Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates at 509.586.2828 for more personalized information.
