Dr. Justin Khoriaty
When chronic shoulder pain and limited mobility begin to interfere with daily activities, total shoulder replacement surgery offers a life-changing solution. Whether you’re suffering from shoulder arthritis, a fracture, or a rotator cuff injury, this advanced procedure can restore strength, reduce pain, and help you return to an active, independent lifestyle.
In this quick Q&A, we’ll walk through who might be a good candidate, what to expect after surgery, and how Iowa Ortho can help you regain full function in your shoulder.
Q: Why Would Someone Need a Total Shoulder Replacement?
A: Total shoulder replacement is typically recommended for patients with arthritis in the shoulder joint who have not responded to conservative treatment options like physical therapy, medications, or injections.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent shoulder pain that limits everyday activities
- Moderate to severe pain even while resting
- Weakness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder
Q: Who Is a Good Candidate for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?
A: Ideal candidates include individuals experiencing:
- Moderate to severe shoulder pain due to arthritis
- Significant mobility issues
- Poor response to non-surgical treatment methods
At Iowa Ortho, we focus on personalized care to ensure the decision for surgery is made based on your individual needs and lifestyle goals.
Q: What Can You Expect After Total Shoulder Replacement?
A: Recovery from a total shoulder replacement is gradual but structured. Here’s a general timeline:
- Sling Use: Patients wear a sling for about 6 weeks post-surgery.
- Physical Therapy: Begins 2 weeks after surgery to restore mobility.
- Strengthening Exercises: Introduced at the 3-month mark.
- Full Recovery: Most patients are fully released from care by 6 months post-op.
Your Iowa Ortho care team will support you throughout the entire process to help you regain shoulder strength and functionality.
Q: Is Total Shoulder Replacement an Inpatient or Outpatient Procedure?
A: In many cases, total shoulder replacement can be done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day. This will depend on your overall health and your surgeon’s recommendation.
Regain Control of Your Shoulder Health
If you’re struggling with persistent shoulder pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care, a total shoulder replacement might be the solution.
Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or use the self-scheduling tool to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khoriaty and find out if this procedure is right for you.