About the Shoulder Joint

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint consisting of three bones: the humerus and humeral head (or upper arm bone), the shoulder blade (also called the scapula), and the clavicle (or collarbone).

The top of the upper arm bone is the “ball” of the joint that sits in the socket called the glenoid. Surrounding the glenoid is soft tissue called the labrum, which helps to support and stabilize the joint during movement and cushions it. Surrounding the labrum is a network of tendons and muscles that allow the joint to move and control its range of motion – this is your rotator cuff.

Any number of injuries or conditions can cause a torn rotator cuff or other types of injury to the shoulder joints. If you’re in chronic severe pain or experience shoulder injuries, don’t hesitate to call an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Steven Golberg as soon as you can. Total shoulder replacement surgery is often a last resort, as rotator cuff tears might be able to be treated with less invasive procedures that allow for quicker recovery. A partial shoulder replacement can provide a better experience and help you regain your mobility.

Dr. Goldberg is calming and professional.

My shoulder replacement is fantastic. Played tennis after 10 weeks. Dr. Goldberg is calming and professional. – C.D.

I would have no hesitancy suggesting him to anyone with similar problems.

My experience with Dr. Goldberg has been wonderful. I felt totally informed of my problem and what would correct it. He did a great job on my shoulder replacement/reversal and today it feels excellent. The follow up with Dr. Goldberg and his staff has also been wonderful. I would have no hesitancy suggesting him to anyone with similar problems. – L.C.

Whole staff took top notch care of me!

GREAT DOCTOR!!!! Whole staff took top notch care of me! Would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Goldberg and his staff!!!! – G.D.

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Partial Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Severe fractures, injuries, and conditions such as osteoarthritis and shoulder arthritis can break down shoulder cartilage, causing pain, stiffness, and discomfort. If non-surgical treatments have failed to adequately relieve pain, a partial shoulder replacement may be considered.

A partial shoulder replacement or stemmed shoulder hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure that may be used when only one portion of the shoulder has cartilage damage. The procedure replaces a segment of the affected joint (only the humeral head, or the ball, and the articular cartilage) as opposed to its entirety. The diseased or injured area is removed and replaced with a new artificial surface to receive the prosthetic metal implant. The metal ball functions just like your natural shoulder, allowing smooth movement.

There are several different options for performing this procedure and restoring shoulder function, including minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery (shoulder arthroplasty). Total shoulder replacement is increasingly rare among orthopaedic surgeons who favor a partial shoulder replacement surgery instead. Reverse shoulder replacement is another option. Dr. Goldberg will discuss these options and determine the best treatment plan for you during a consultation about orthopedic surgery.

Shoulder Pain: When Should I See a Doctor?

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Shoulder Pain: When Should I See a Doctor?

Most people will have shoulder pain at some point in their lifetime. Sometimes, shoulder pain is caused by sore muscles due to overuse. Usually, ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications can resolve this type of pain. However, if you're experiencing shoulder pain that doesn't get better with time, you should schedule an appointment to see your orthopedic doctor. Your shoulder…

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Recovery From Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery

Partial shoulder surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and patients may require a short hospital stay. In some cases, the patient may be able to go home the same day. The arm will be immobilized in a sling for up to four weeks. Some pain, discomfort, and limited mobility should be expected for a few weeks after surgery. Dr. Goldberg prescribes painkilling and anti inflammatory medications to manage side effects.

Participation in physical therapy is important to help strengthen and restore the shoulder’s mobility. Dr. Goldberg’s practice recommends a rehab protocol that encourages patients to perform specific exercises the first day after surgery and start physical therapy within a week of their operation. Implementing a rehab protocol enables patients to return more quickly to their daily activities and achieve pain relief from their chronic condition.

Frequently Asked Questions about Partial Shoulder Replacement

What is a partial shoulder replacement, and how does it differ from a total shoulder replacement?

Partial shoulder replacement is surgery where the surgeon places an implant or resurfaces one of the surfaces of the shoulder that has arthritis. This differs from a total shoulder replacement where both surfaces of the joint are replaced. Partial shoulder replacements are less common than total shoulder replacements but are used in certain instances.

What conditions or injuries can be treated with a partial shoulder replacement?

In some cases of arthritis, a partial shoulder replacement is preferred over a full shoulder replacement but this is often doctor dependent. There are some conditions, such as avascular necrosis, where only one side of the shoulder joint if affected, especially in younger patients, and a partial shoulder prepalecement is preferred.

How long does partial shoulder replacement surgery typically take?

The operation for a partial shoulder replacement takes one hour and is commonly done without an overnight stay.

Are there specific risks related to my age, health condition, or activity level?

All surgery involves some risks, including infection, bleeding or anesthesia complications. The age and overall health condition do affect the risks involved with surgery. You should discuss your individual condition with your doctor.

How long will the recovery process take after partial shoulder replacement surgery?

Most patients feel good with significantly less pain in about 6 weeks but in most cases, it is recommended to wait 3 months before resuming sports or other vigorous activities.

Will I need to wear a sling or immobilizer after partial shoulder replacement surgery, and for how long?

Typically, our patients are recommended to wear a sling for 4 weeks, but the sling is taken off a few times a day for light exercises and can be removed when seated.

Will I need physical therapy and when can I start it?

We typically recommend patients to do formal physical therapy with a physical therapist after surgery but this can vary between surgeons. In our practice, we also start patients on light, self-directed exercises the day following surgery.

When can I expect to return to normal activities such as driving, working, or exercising?

Patients often begin to work from home within a week after their surgery. Depending on the surgery, it can be one to four weeks before driving is recommended. Vigorous exercise begins anywhere from one to three months after surgery and depends on the type of surgery performed.

Will my range of motion and strength be fully restored after partial shoulder replacement surgery?

Many patients have near normal range of motion and good strength after full recovery.

How long do the implants typically last, and will I need additional surgeries in the future?

This depends on the underlying cause or reason for the surgery being performed and factors involving the patient's age and health. Ideally, these implants are intended to last for the patient’s lifetime. In some cases, additional surgeries may be needed years down the road.

Do I need to arrange for assistance at home during my recovery period?

The vast majority of patients with a healthy partner will not need additional assistance at home. Some patients who are more elderly or with certain medical conditions will have a home health nurse visit them at home the first few days.

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Partial Shoulder Replacement Surgery in Naples, FL

Dr. Goldberg is one of the most experienced shoulder orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists in the Southwest Florida area. When experience matters, schedule an appointment to have him assess and determine the best treatment options for you! Call our office or contact us online to learn more about your options for partial shoulder surgery.