Shoulder replacement surgery may be necessary when conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections fail to manage pain or restore function. Severe arthritis, complex fractures, or rotator cuff tears that render the shoulder joint irreparable are common reasons for undergoing this procedure.
In this blog, we’ll discuss shoulder replacement, recovery, and how physical therapy can play a key role in shoulder replacement rehabilitation.
What Is a Shoulder Replacement?
A shoulder replacement, or shoulder arthroplasty, involves replacing parts of the shoulder joint with prosthetic components to restore movement and reduce pain. The shoulder, a ball-and-socket joint, is comprised of the humeral head (the ball) and the glenoid (the socket). Depending on the extent of damage, the surgery may involve:
- Hemiarthroplasty: Replacing just the ball of the joint.
- Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (TSA): Replacing the ball and socket with metal and plastic components.
- Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (rTSA): Reversing the ball-and-socket orientation, typically used when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, with the goal of restoring shoulder function and improving quality of life. Over the decades, advancements in surgical techniques and prosthetic designs have significantly improved outcomes, making these procedures more effective and durable. Artificial joint lifespans last well over 20 years.
What Does Shoulder Replacement Recovery Look Like?
Recovering from shoulder replacement surgery is a process that requires time, caution, and shoulder rehabilitation. While the timeline can vary based on the type of surgery and individual factors, the general phases of recovery include:
Phase 1: Immediate Post-Surgical (0-6 weeks)
During the initial weeks, the focus is on protecting the surgical repair and minimizing pain. Patients will likely wear slings or immobilizers and avoid active shoulder movements. Passive exercises, such as gentle range-of-motion activities, may be introduced under the guidance of a physical therapist. Common goals include:
- Reducing pain and swelling through cryotherapy and rest.
- Maintaining mobility in nearby joints, such as the elbow and wrist.
- Educating activity restrictions to avoid complications like dislocation.
Phase 2: Early Strength and Mobility (6-12 weeks)
As healing progresses, physical therapy will shift towards regaining mobility and gently activating the shoulder muscles. Controlled passive and active-assisted exercises may be used to improve the range of motion. Strengthening exercises for surrounding muscles, like the deltoid and scapular stabilizers, are gradually introduced.
Phase 3: Strength and Function (12+ weeks)
By this stage, the goal is to rebuild strength and improve functional use of the shoulder. Resistance training and weight-bearing exercises are slowly added to ensure the joint is stable and strong. A physical therapist will work with patients on their specific goals, such as returning to pickleball or swimming.
Full recovery from a shoulder replacement can take 6-12 months, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in pain relief and mobility. However, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations. While most patients regain the ability to perform daily tasks, certain limitations may remain depending on the complexity of the procedure and pre-surgical condition.
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
A physical therapist will be the guide to help determine how fast or how slow to progress a patient’s shoulder replacement recovery. They will assist with the following items:
A Customized Recovery Plan
Different types of surgery require different precautions and speeds of progression. A PT tailors a rehabilitation program based on the patient’s surgery, pre-existing conditions, and personal goals.
Pain and Swelling Management
Techniques such as manual therapy, cryotherapy, and gentle movement exercises help reduce post-surgical pain and swelling, making it easier to stay consistent with a recovery plan.
Restoring Range of Motion and Strength
Physical therapists use progressive exercises to help regain flexibility and build strength in the affected shoulder. They also focus on improving the stability of the surrounding muscles to support long-term joint health.
Finding the Right Physical Therapy Near You
Shoulder replacement surgery is the last step in addressing chronic pain and severe joint dysfunction, but it can offer patients a path to improved mobility and function. Adhering to a structured shoulder replacement recovery plan and incorporating physical therapy can significantly enhance surgical outcomes, supporting a return to normal activities and an improved quality of life.
If you’ve had a shoulder replacement or are planning one, partnering with a qualified physical therapist is essential for a successful recovery. Regular PT sessions can significantly improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life.
Take the first step towards recovery by finding a physical therapy location near you. Early intervention can lead to quicker and more effective relief, allowing you to return to the activities you love.