Do I need a shoulder replacement?
A shoulder replacement is a reliable way of curing shoulder pain from arthritis. If your arthritis is stopping you from doing the things you love or from getting a good nights sleep a shoulder replacement might be a good option for you.
Will a shoulder injection help my arthritis pain?
Yes, shoulder injections can give temporary relief from arthritis. However, injections often don't provide permanent pain relief.
Will I get more movement?
Getting rid of your pain is the main purpose of a shoulder replacement. You may also get more movement.
Will I need any investigations?
An X-ray usually provides enough information to plan a shoulder replacement. Sometimes a CT scan is needed to plan surgery.
What is the difference between a reverse and a conventional shoulder replacement?
A reverse shoulder replacement is used when the tendons are damaged and a conventional shoulder replacement is used when the tendons are normal. In a conventional shoulder replacement the socket is replaced with a new plastic socket and the ball is replaced with metal. In a reverse shoulder replacement the socket is replaced with a ball and the ball is replaced with a socket. Phil Holland will discuss the type of shoulder replacement suitable for you at your appointment.
What will happen if I have surgery?
You will usually come into hospital on the day of your surgery and go home the next day. The operation is carried out with you asleep under a general anaesthetic. You will have a sling for four weeks and will start some early physiotherapy straight away. Don't be frightened to move your arm as pain allows. Gradually any pain will settle. Most people have only minor pain by six weeks.
Do I need to wear a sling?
For the first four weeks you should wear a sling most of the time but you can take it off when resting. At night you may find supporting your arm with pillows more comfortable.
What do I do with the wound?
Usually you wont have any stitches to remove. Leave the dressing alone for two weeks and then remove it. Keep the dressing dry. To shower protect the dressing with clingfilm or a plastic bag. If the dressing becomes stained your GP practice nurse can change it.
When can I drive and return to work?
You can drive as soon as you can steer safely, this is usually by about six weeks. You need to inform your insurance company about your surgery. Most people return to light work at six weeks. At three months you can return to heavier work and sport. You should never do heavy tasks such as digging with your shoulder replacement as it will cause it to wear it out quickly.
Did you know?
You can find out all about your surgeon on the NHS Choices website by clicking here.
A shoulder replacement is a reliable way of curing shoulder pain from arthritis. If your arthritis is stopping you from doing the things you love or from getting a good nights sleep a shoulder replacement might be a good option for you.
Will a shoulder injection help my arthritis pain?
Yes, shoulder injections can give temporary relief from arthritis. However, injections often don't provide permanent pain relief.
Will I get more movement?
Getting rid of your pain is the main purpose of a shoulder replacement. You may also get more movement.
Will I need any investigations?
An X-ray usually provides enough information to plan a shoulder replacement. Sometimes a CT scan is needed to plan surgery.
What is the difference between a reverse and a conventional shoulder replacement?
A reverse shoulder replacement is used when the tendons are damaged and a conventional shoulder replacement is used when the tendons are normal. In a conventional shoulder replacement the socket is replaced with a new plastic socket and the ball is replaced with metal. In a reverse shoulder replacement the socket is replaced with a ball and the ball is replaced with a socket. Phil Holland will discuss the type of shoulder replacement suitable for you at your appointment.
What will happen if I have surgery?
You will usually come into hospital on the day of your surgery and go home the next day. The operation is carried out with you asleep under a general anaesthetic. You will have a sling for four weeks and will start some early physiotherapy straight away. Don't be frightened to move your arm as pain allows. Gradually any pain will settle. Most people have only minor pain by six weeks.
Do I need to wear a sling?
For the first four weeks you should wear a sling most of the time but you can take it off when resting. At night you may find supporting your arm with pillows more comfortable.
What do I do with the wound?
Usually you wont have any stitches to remove. Leave the dressing alone for two weeks and then remove it. Keep the dressing dry. To shower protect the dressing with clingfilm or a plastic bag. If the dressing becomes stained your GP practice nurse can change it.
When can I drive and return to work?
You can drive as soon as you can steer safely, this is usually by about six weeks. You need to inform your insurance company about your surgery. Most people return to light work at six weeks. At three months you can return to heavier work and sport. You should never do heavy tasks such as digging with your shoulder replacement as it will cause it to wear it out quickly.
Did you know?
You can find out all about your surgeon on the NHS Choices website by clicking here.