Shoulder Replacement

Overview

Shoulder replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is a procedure to treat advanced shoulder arthritis by removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components called prostheses. The surgery aims to relieve pain and restore function in a severely damaged shoulder joint.

For many people, shoulder arthritis causes persistent pain, sleep disruption, and limitation in daily activities such as washing, dressing, and lifting. When conservative treatments have not provided relief after a prolonged trial, shoulder replacement can offer significant improvement in pain relief and functional recovery.

When Is It Needed?

Shoulder replacement may be considered when:

• Pain, weakness and stiffness persist for more than 6 months despite physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication and other conservative treatments
• Imaging (X-ray or MRI) shows significant “bone-on-bone” arthritis
• Daily activities such as washing, reaching, dressing or sleeping are significantly affected
• Quality of life is substantially impaired by pain and loss of function

Not all patients with shoulder arthritis require surgery. Your surgeon will assess your symptoms, medical history and imaging to determine whether replacement is appropriate for you.

The Procedure

During shoulder replacement, Dr Markham will remove the damaged portions of the shoulder joint and replace them with prosthetic components. The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia as an inpatient or day surgery admission.

Most patients do not require more than a single night in hospital. The level of initial post-operative pain varies between individuals but is generally managed well with prescribed analgesia.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Recovery from shoulder replacement takes time and requires active participation in rehabilitation. Here is what you can typically expect:

• Immediate (0–2 weeks): A sling is worn to protect the repair. Pain is usually most significant in the first 2 weeks but gradually improves with medication and care. The surgical dressing is generally removed at 2 weeks.
• 4–6 weeks: You can gradually reduce sling use once pain and swelling settle. Driving should begin only after you are out of the sling and off strong pain medication.
• 6–12 weeks and beyond: Gradual return to normal activities and light exercises under physiotherapy guidance. Full functional recovery may take several months.

Adhering to post-operative instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and participating actively in prescribed physiotherapy will support optimal recovery and help prevent complications.

Risks & Complications

As with all surgical procedures, shoulder replacement carries potential risks. Most patients experience uncomplicated recovery, but you should be aware of possible complications:

Common side effects (usually minor and temporary):

• Swelling and bruising
• Pain or discomfort in the first 1–2 weeks, managed with pain medication
• Stiffness

Less common complications:

• Infection, which may require antibiotics or surgical intervention
• Blood clots, which can develop after surgery
• Nerve or blood vessel injury, resulting in temporary or rarely permanent changes in sensation or movement
• Implant loosening over time, potentially requiring revision surgery
• Dislocation, usually associated with a fall or implant wear
• Reaction to anaesthesia

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail before surgery and provide strategies to minimise them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the procedure take? Shoulder replacement typically takes 1–2 hours under general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of your case and any additional repairs needed.

Will I have pain after surgery? Some pain and discomfort are normal after shoulder replacement. Pain is usually most significant in the first 1–2 weeks but is manageable with prescribed medication and appropriate care. Discomfort typically improves progressively as healing progresses.

When can I shower? You can generally shower within a few days of surgery, keeping the surgical dressing intact and dry. Your surgeon will advise when the dressing can be removed.

How soon can I drive? You should not drive until you are completely off strong pain medication and out of the sling, which is typically after 4–6 weeks. Your surgeon will confirm when it is safe to resume driving.

Will a shoulder replacement last forever? Modern shoulder replacements are designed to be durable, with research showing high rates of long-term function in the majority of patients. Like all joint replacements, they may require revision surgery in the longer term — your surgeon can discuss realistic longevity expectations for your individual circumstances.