A shoulder injury is an acute condition that if not addressed early, may develop into post-traumatic arthritis. Shoulder pain or dysfunction can be significantly uncomfortable and can limit you from carrying out your day-to-day activities. If you’re looking for permanent relief from pain due to shoulder injury, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist offers shoulder replacement in West Orange.
What is shoulder replacement surgery?
A shoulder replacement surgery involves removing the damaged sections of your shoulder, replacing them with artificial ones. This surgery aims at eliminating shoulder pain and rectifying shoulder dysfunction that may limit your mobility. Your shoulder joint is made up of a ball-and-socket, such that the upper end of your arm appears like a bony ball that connects to your scapula. This mechanism allows for flexibility and effortless movement of your arms. A joint replacement procedure may include the replacement of your humerus or both the glenoid socket and humerus. Dr. Lee performs a comprehensive physical examination of your shoulder to customize prosthetic pieces that fit perfectly in your shoulder joint. The prosthetic pieces function the same as the natural ball and socket and do not affect your flexibility. Dr. Lee uses medical cement to promote bone regeneration to keep the prosthetic pieces in and restore full functioning of your shoulders.
What shoulder injuries can joint replacement address?
Dr. Lee first thoroughly examines the affected shoulder to determine if a joint replacement is the best option for your condition. Several shoulder injuries and disorders can cause shoulder dysfunction or disability that you can avoid. Some of the injuries that shoulder replacement surgery can address include:
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Avascular necrosis
- Osteoarthritis of your shoulder joint
- Rotator cuff tear arthropathy
- Rheumatoid arthritis
These conditions target your joint components damaging them to the point of limiting your mobility. Osteoarthritis develops as a result of progressive degeneration of your bones and the surrounding supportive tissue. On the other hand, post-traumatic arthritis develops gradually after a detrimental shoulder injury, eventually affecting your flexibility and mobility. Traumatic injuries like acute fractures of the arm may prompt a joint replacement surgery to restore your arm’s functioning. Dr. Lee may also recommend shoulder replacement surgery if you underwent a previous failed attempt at the surgery.
What should you expect after a joint replacement surgery?
After the surgery, Dr. Lee and his team may require you to remain at the hospital for further observation. The recovery period depends on your overall health and the complexity of the surgical procedure. You’re likely to experience mild pain and discomfort during the recovery period. The tea may prescribe some medications or injections to relieve your pain. You may have limited arm mobility for about one month to allow for a full recovery. Dr. Lee advises that you should avoid lifting or pushing healthy objects using the affected arm. He recommends adhering to the scheduled therapies to hasten your recovery so you can embark on your daily activities.
If your shoulder injury is causing you unspeakable pain, call Dr. Lee or make an online appointment to have your issue sorted.