MEET WITH A TOP SHOULDER ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON NEAR YOU
Shoulder Replacement
When shoulder pain becomes constant, unmanageable, or limits your ability to lift, reach, or sleep comfortably, joint replacement may be the best path toward lasting relief. Today’s shoulder replacements are more precise, more personalized, and more durable than ever, especially when paired with cutting-edge surgical tools.
Dr. Christopher Swanson, double board-certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine, offers both total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement at his practices in Jacksonville, St. Johns, and Fleming Island, Florida. Using industry-leading shoulder implants and the ARVIS® Augmented Reality Surgical Guidance from Enovis™, he delivers a fully modern surgical experience.
If shoulder pain is limiting your mobility, strength, or independence, schedule a consultation with Dr. Swanson today and learn whether an advanced shoulder replacement is right for you.
ADVANCED SHOULDER REPLACEMENT SURGERY NEAR YOU
How 
Optimizes Shoulder Replacement
Depending on the condition of the joint and surrounding tissues, Dr. Swanson may recommend:
- Shoulder Resurfacing: This bone-preserving option replaces only the damaged surface of the humeral head with a cap-like implant, keeping more of the natural bone intact. It’s a great solution for younger or more active patients with focal arthritis who aren’t ready for full joint replacement.
- Total Shoulder Replacement: This procedure mimics the natural structure of the shoulder. It replaces the worn ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) and the socket of the shoulder blade (glenoid) with smooth, prosthetic components. It’s ideal for patients with arthritis and an intact rotator cuff.
- Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: Designed for patients with torn rotator cuffs or complex shoulder degeneration, this procedure reverses the ball-and-socket orientation. This allows other muscles (like the deltoid) to take over movement, offering stability and pain relief when traditional replacement isn’t suitable.
Dr. Swanson uses the Foundation® Shoulder System and Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis (RSP®) from Enovis, which are implants built to replace damaged areas of the shoulder joint affected by arthritis and help restore mobility. Their thoughtful, anatomic design helps Dr. Swanson select the right fit for each patient’s individual anatomy.
Dr. Swanson also uses ARVIS®, an augmented reality surgical guidance system from Enovis, during shoulder replacement surgery. This technology provides visual data that helps Dr. Swanson plan and perform precise cuts and implant placement based on the patient’s anatomy. ARVIS is a tool that improves the surgeon’s view and supports decision-making in real time, but the procedure is always guided and performed entirely by Dr. Swanson. It’s one more way he brings thoughtful, modern solutions to every step of your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery?
Candidates for shoulder replacement typically have advanced arthritis, chronic pain, fractures, or severe loss of function that hasn’t improved with non-surgical treatments. If your shoulder limits your ability to lift, reach, or sleep, and imaging shows joint degeneration or rotator cuff damage, surgery may be the most effective solution.
What’s the difference between total and reverse shoulder replacement?
Total shoulder replacement replicates the natural anatomy of the shoulder joint and is typically used when the rotator cuff is intact. The ball and socket are replaced with prosthetic components that move like a healthy joint.
Reverse shoulder replacement, on the other hand, switches the ball and socket orientation. This design allows the deltoid muscle to power the arm when the rotator cuff is severely torn or nonfunctional.
Dr. Swanson performs both types and will recommend the best option based on your shoulder’s structure and function.
How long does it take to recover from shoulder replacement?
Recovery varies depending on the type of shoulder replacement and your overall health. Most patients wear a sling for several weeks and begin physical therapy shortly after surgery. Light activities can often resume within 6 to 8 weeks, with more active use returning around 3 to 6 months. Full recovery (including strength and range of motion) can take up to a year.
Dr. Swanson will provide a structured recovery plan to guide you through the process safely and effectively.
Which hospitals or surgery centers does Dr. Swanson use?
Dr. Swanson conducts shoulder replacements at First Coast Surgery Center and St. Vincent’s Riverside. Both locations are fully equipped to support modern joint replacement techniques and patient-centered care.
How do I schedule a consultation with a shoulder specialist near me?
It’s easy to schedule a consultation with Dr. Swanson! You can request an appointment online or call any of our conveniently located offices in Jacksonville, St. Johns, or Fleming Island. Our team will help find a time that fits your schedule and answer any questions you may have.
Don’t let chronic shoulder pain limit your life. Reach out today to explore your options for advanced shoulder replacement guided by the latest in orthopedic technology.