Shoulder replacement surgery, also called shoulder arthroplasty, is one of the most effective treatments for chronic shoulder pain and loss of mobility caused by arthritis, injury, or degeneration. Each year, thousands of people regain pain-free movement and return to the activities they love thanks to advancements in joint replacement technology.
At the orthopedic clinics of Dr. Christopher E. Swanson, MD, patients are cared for by a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, shoulder surgery, knee surgery, and orthobiologics. With convenient offices in Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Johns, and Northside, Dr. Swanson and his team provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments supported by the latest technology. If you’ve been living with chronic shoulder pain, it may be time to explore whether shoulder replacement surgery near you can help.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials: what shoulder replacement is, when it’s needed, how it works, and what you can expect from recovery.
What Is Shoulder Replacement?
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint. The rounded head of the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into the socket of the shoulder blade (glenoid). Over time or after injury, this joint can become damaged, leading to pain, stiffness, and weakness.
Shoulder replacement surgery involves removing the damaged portions of the joint and replacing them with prosthetic implants made of metal and high-grade plastic. The goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and allow the joint to function more like a healthy shoulder.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Choosing the right type of surgery depends on your condition, the health of your rotator cuff, and the extent of damage in the joint. A shoulder pain specialist near you will perform a thorough evaluation before recommending one of these approaches:
Total Shoulder Replacement
This is the most common type. Both the humeral head (ball) and the socket (glenoid) are replaced with prosthetic components that mimic the natural anatomy of the shoulder. It’s typically best for patients with arthritis and an intact rotator cuff.
Partial Shoulder Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty)
In cases where only the ball is damaged, a partial replacement may be performed. This preserves the natural socket but replaces the humeral head with an artificial implant.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
If the rotator cuff tendons are severely torn or nonfunctional, a reverse replacement is often recommended. In this procedure, the ball and socket orientation is reversed, allowing the deltoid muscle to compensate for the damaged rotator cuff. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with severe arthritis or those who have had previous failed surgeries.
Shoulder Resurfacing
For younger, more active patients with limited joint damage, resurfacing may be an option. Instead of replacing the entire joint, only the surface of the humeral head is capped with a prosthetic cover, preserving more of the natural bone.
Signs You May Need Shoulder Replacement
Not every patient with shoulder pain requires surgery. However, shoulder replacement surgeons near you often recommend the procedure if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain that doesn’t improve with rest, medication, or therapy
- Difficulty lifting, reaching, or rotating your arm
- Severe stiffness that limits daily activities such as dressing or reaching overhead
- Pain that keeps you awake at night
- Previous shoulder fractures or failed repairs that cause ongoing dysfunction
If these symptoms sound familiar, consulting a shoulder pain treatment provider may be the first step toward long-term relief.
Non-Surgical Treatments to Try First
Before recommending surgery, orthopedic specialists typically encourage patients to try conservative measures, such as:
- Physical therapy: Strengthens surrounding muscles and restores mobility.
- Activity modifications: Adjusting movements to reduce strain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and inflammation.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or biologic injections such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
If these treatments no longer provide relief, surgery may be the next appropriate step.
Benefits of Shoulder Replacement Surgery
When performed by experienced shoulder replacement surgeons near you, this procedure offers several important benefits:
- Pain relief: Most patients experience a significant reduction in shoulder pain.
- Improved mobility: Daily activities like lifting, reaching, and dressing become easier.
- Restored strength: With a stable joint, patients can regain upper-body strength over time.
- Better sleep: Many report uninterrupted rest once shoulder pain subsides.
- Enhanced quality of life: The ability to return to work, hobbies, and sports is often restored.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery
Before Surgery: Evaluation and Preparation
Your first step is a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Swanson He will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and activity goals, and perform a physical exam. Advanced imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be used to measure joint damage and plan the exact size and position of your implant. Dr. Swanson carefully reviews current medications, health conditions, and anesthesia options to ensure safety. At his practice, pain management typically combines general anesthesia with a regional nerve block, helping patients stay comfortable during and after surgery.
During Surgery: The Procedure
Most shoulder replacement procedures with Dr. Swanson last one to two hours. The damaged joint surfaces are removed, and implants are placed with precise alignment to restore smooth motion and long-term function.
For patients needing a reverse total shoulder replacement, the ball is placed on the shoulder blade, and the socket is secured to the arm bone. This design lets the deltoid muscle take over when the rotator cuff no longer works.
At Dr. Swanson’s Jacksonville and Fleming Island practices, precision is supported by ARVIS® Augmented Reality Surgical Guidance (Enovis™). This system projects real-time surgical data into the surgeon’s view, improving implant alignment without taking attention away from the operative field. Importantly, Dr. Swanson himself performs and directs every procedure; technology is used to enhance, not replace, his surgical expertise.
After Surgery: Early Recovery and Rehab
Many patients can return home the same day of surgery, depending on their health and procedure type. Immediately after surgery, your shoulder will be supported in a sling to protect the repair.
Dr. Swanson’s team provides a personalized rehabilitation plan, which may include guided physical therapy to restore flexibility, improve strength, and protect your new joint. Most patients begin gentle movement early and progress to more active exercises over time. Recovery is gradual, with significant improvements typically seen within weeks and steady progress continuing for several months.
Throughout recovery, Dr. Swanson and his care team closely monitor healing, adjust therapy as needed, and provide support to help patients safely return to work, hobbies, and sports.
Risks and Complications to Consider
Like any surgery, shoulder replacement carries potential risks, although complications are rare with advanced techniques:
- Infection or delayed wound healing.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury.
- Implant loosening or dislocation.
- Blood clots.
- Persistent pain or stiffness.
Dr. Swanson’s expertise and minimally invasive approach help reduce these risks and promote optimal outcomes.
Life After Shoulder Replacement
With proper rehabilitation, most patients regain full use of the shoulder and enjoy years of improved function. Modern implants are designed for durability, often lasting 15 years or more. Regular follow-ups help monitor healing and long-term joint health.
Find Shoulder Pain Relief Today
Shoulder replacement surgery can restore mobility, relieve pain, and improve your quality of life when conservative options no longer work. At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics, we combine advanced surgical techniques, cutting-edge technology, and personalized care to deliver lasting results.
If shoulder pain is interfering with your life, don’t wait. Call us at (904) 634-0640 or request an appointment online. Take the first step toward pain-free movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
Most procedures last between one and two hours.
Is shoulder replacement painful?
Anesthesia and nerve blocks manage pain during surgery; medications and therapy help after.
When can I drive again?
Typically, after 4–6 weeks, once you are off pain medications and can safely control the wheel.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. Physical therapy is crucial to restoring strength and motion.
How long do shoulder implants last?
Many last 15–20 years, though this depends on activity level and implant type.