Put An End To Shoulder Pain

While occasional shoulder pain can happen because of overuse, sleeping in a weird position, or just age, if the pain persists, a problem may exist. In some cases, an injury or even wear and tear over time can break down parts of the shoulder joint such as the bones, tendons, or ligaments. After a while, people might need to consider a joint replacement surgery. While some damage may be extensive enough to require a total replacement surgery, other individuals may benefit from a partial replacement. If shoulder instability has a physician recommending joint replacement, here’s what to know.

Partial versus full replacements

Formally known as arthroplasties, joint replacements are a fairly common procedure. Usually, factors such as the extent of the damage in the shoulder, the patient’s age, and even lifestyle factors will all play a role in determining whether a person is a better candidate for a partial versus full replacement. In a partial joint replacement, only damaged elements such as a socket bone, specific ligaments, or tendons are removed and replaced with more durable alternatives. For a full replacement, the entire joint is removed and recreated using replacement parts.

Shoulder resurfacing

Just because a person experiences persistent pain or instability in the shoulder joint doesn’t mean that a traditional partial or full replacement is necessary. In specific cases, a physician may recommend shoulder resurfacing. This procedure is usually recommended for people that are experiencing arthritis or injury-related pain in the area, but aren’t struggling with severe joint stability issues. Instead of fully removing joints, the process involves shaving down the damaged part of the humeral surface and then fixing a metal covering over the surface. The procedure can preserve more of the bone and prevent damage from progressing.

Who is a good candidate for resurfacing?

Resurfacing is even less invasive than arthroscopies. Patients can enjoy faster recovery times, and a smoother physical therapy experience. While traditional resurfacings use a metal or prosthetic cap to cover the humerus bone, some versions can be done with a biological graft. In other words, healthy tissue that’s been donated either from the patient or an alternate individual is used to create the cap. However, to be eligible for the biologic shoulder resurfacing, the patient should be 50 or younger, retain a good range of motion and flexibility in the shoulder, and not be eligible for replacement surgeries.

Resurfacing versus replacement

Resurfacing is ideal for people that have experienced minimal damage on the humerus bone as a result of arthritis or a shoulder injury. The process is a preventative solution that preserves and prevents deterioration in the bone from progressing. By contrast, a replacement surgery, whether partial or total, is intended to treat more pervasive damage and is often viewed as the final treatment solution when noninvasive or less intricate treatments haven’t worked.

Don’t settle for shoulder pain

For most people opting for shoulder surgery, whether joint replacement or resurfacing, the benefits outweigh the risks. Choosing not to have surgery can mean a life of pain and limited mobility. An orthopedic surgeon can provide more details on what to expect, and which procedure is best based on patient history.