Shoulder Replacement

The worn shoulder joint is replaced with an implant — for arthritis, for damage after a fracture, or, as a reverse replacement, where the rotator cuff no longer works.

What the operation involves

One and a half to three hours under general anaesthetic, often with a nerve block that keeps the arm comfortable through the first day. In a reverse replacement the ball and socket are swapped, which lets the deltoid lift the arm when the cuff cannot.

Recovery and what to expect

Two to four days in hospital and a sling for three to six weeks. Physiotherapy starts in hospital and largely determines how much movement you regain; overhead reach typically improves over six to twelve months.

What we arrange around it

Around two and a half weeks. You will not be able to use that arm normally, so a companion makes a real difference here.