Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder | Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Dear Dr. Millett,

I’ve played sports for as long as I can remember and now that I have retired from my professional job, I have taken up golf with a few of my retired buddies. We play a lot. However, I’ve experienced a lot of shoulder pain in the last year and my doctor has confirmed that I have advanced shoulder arthritis. I am 72 and am a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery. Will this help with my pain and mobility?

I appreciate your help,
Stan P.

Hi Stan,

Shoulder replacement surgery, also referred to as total shoulder replacement or shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgery whereby the arthritis is removed and an artificial joint (ball and socket) is placed into the shoulder. Total shoulder replacement is an elective surgery, meaning that though you may have severe pain that you cannot live with, it is still your decision whether or not to receive it.

Total shoulder replacement is highly effective at relieving pain and restoring function. It is a wonderful solution for many adults who have advanced arthritis of the shoulder, with loss of cartilage from both the ball (humeral head) and the socket (glenoid). It is important to know that shoulder replacement is usually recommended in those who have failed non-surgical treatments, such as injections medications, and physical therapy.

Candidates for total shoulder replacement are those who have:

Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis (from a severe accident or fall or old fracture)
Rotator cuff tear (a combination of severe arthritis and a massive non-reparable rotator cuff tendon tear)

95% of patients who undergo total shoulder replacement are greatly pleased with their relief of pain and renewed mobility. This prosthesis will provide pain relief and mobility for approximately 15 years and at times, longer. I usually will not recommend a total shoulder replacement until my patients are 60 or older, although in certain settings it can be used effectively in younger patients who don’t have other options (see CAM procedure). In younger patients, we may use other techniques that help with pain including the CAM Procedure.

When a total shoulder replacement is performed we typically start physical therapy immediately and begin a regiment of movement immediately following the surgery in order to allow the body to adjust to the new shoulder, and help one to recover quickly and comfortably. Patients stay one or two nights in the hospital and use a sling for only 2 to 3 weeks following the surgery. Golf, tennis, hiking, skiing, cycling, and other sports are permitted after total shoulder replacement. Most patients are cleared for full, unrestricted activities at 4 months following the surgery.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

Am I Candidate for Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

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