Shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure where damaged or arthritic parts of the shoulder joint are replaced with artificial components. It’s typically recommended for people with severe shoulder pain and reduced function due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or shoulder injuries.

There are two main types of shoulder replacement:

1. Total Shoulder Replacement: Both the humeral head (the top of the upper arm bone) and the glenoid (the socket in the shoulder blade) are replaced.
2. Reverse Shoulder Replacement: The positions of the ball and socket are switched. This is often used for patients with rotator cuff problems along with arthritis.

Recovery can take several months, involving physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. It’s important to discuss the potential risks, benefits, and recovery expectations with your surgeon if you’re considering this surgery. Do you have specific questions about the procedure or recovery?