Frequently Asked Questions

Anatomic & Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Posted by Eric J. Sanders, MD | Shoulder & Elbow Specialist

What is shoulder arthroplasty?

Shoulder arthroplasty—also known as shoulder replacement—is a surgery that replaces the damaged parts of your shoulder joint with metal and plastic components. It’s used to relieve pain and restore movement in patients with arthritis, joint damage, or major rotator cuff problems.

What’s the difference between anatomic and reverse shoulder replacement?

• Anatomic shoulder replacement uses implants that mimic the natural shape of your shoulder and is ideal for patients with arthritis and an intact rotator cuff.

• Reverse shoulder replacement reverses the ball and socket to shift the work to the deltoid muscle. It’s best for patients with severe rotator cuff damage or failed previous surgeries.

How do I know which type of shoulder replacement I need?

Dr. Sanders will determine the best type of replacement based on your symptoms, physical exam, imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs), and the condition of your rotator cuff and bone structure.

Anatomic shoulder replacement requires an intact and healthy rotator cuff as well as a strong foundation of bone with less wear and tear on the socket side.

Reverse total shoulder replacements can be used in most applications where Anatomic shoulder replacements would otherwise fail early. This includes rotator cuff tears, heavily worn bone deformities, and fractures.

What are the main benefits of shoulder replacement surgery?

• Significant pain relief

  • Pain relief shoulder be the primary goal of surgery

• Improved range of motion

• Better shoulder function

• Ability to return to daily activities and low- to moderate-impact sports

How long do shoulder replacements last?

• Anatomic replacements typically last 10+ years in more than 90% of patients.

• Reverse replacements are expected to last in over 90% of patients at 20 years with proper care and modern implants.

Will I be able to return to normal activities?

Showering can be performed immediately, Dr. Sanders uses a waterproof bandage that stays until your follow-up.

Driving is allowed two weeks after surgery.

Most patients (70-90%, depending on the study) return to sports and activities like:

• Golf

• Tennis

• Swimming

• Hunting

• Gardening

• Light to moderate physical work

Heavy, repetitive overhead labor is discouraged to prolong the life of your implant.

What should I avoid (lifetime) after shoulder replacement?

• Lifting more than 50 pounds overhead (especially after reverse replacement)

• High-impact or contact sports

• Repetitive heavy lifting or pushing above shoulder height

What kind of pain relief can I expect?

Most patients report:

• Anatomic replacement: Significant or complete pain relief, average less than 1 out of 10 pain scale.

• Reverse replacement: Over 90% experience major pain improvement; some may have mild, occasional muscle soreness with an average of less than 1 out of 10 pain scale.

Is physical therapy required after a shoulder replacement?

Most patients choose to undergo physical therapy after total shoulder replacements.

From my perspective, it is required after an anatomic shoulder arthroplasty unless an individual is highly motivated and has exceptional understanding of the therapy recommendations and protocol.

After reverse total shoulder replacements, physical therapy allows for for a slightly quicker recovery that otherwise matches home exercises alone at 12 months from surgery. Essentially, I allow reverse shoulder replacement patients to choose whether they want to undergo therapy or just perform home exercises.

How long is the recovery time?

Most patients:

• Wear a sling for a few weeks after surgery

• Start physical therapy early to restore motion

• Gradually return to activities over 3 to 6 months

• Reach maximum improvement by 9 to 12 months

• On average, most patients are 70% recovered by 3 months and 90-95% recovered by six months

Are there risks with shoulder replacement surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks, including:

• Infection

• Implant loosening or wear over time

• Dislocation (more common in reverse replacements)

• Fracture around implant

• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)

Dr. Sanders will discuss these risks in detail and take every precaution to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

📅 To schedule a consultation, visit www.texasorthopaedic.com
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📞 Call (214) 750-1207