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.
Partial Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Severe fractures, injuries, and conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid 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 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 (the ball) as opposed to its entirety. The diseased or injured area is removed and replaced with a new artificial surface.
There are several different options for performing this procedure, including minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery. Dr. Goldberg will discuss these options and determine the best treatment plan for you during a consultation about orthopedic surgery.
Related Blog
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…
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.
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.
Shoulder 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.
