Arthritis of the Shoulder | Total Shoulder Replacement | Shoulder Replacement Surgery

I have Advanced Arthritis and am Seeking Help. What Can be Done for Me?

Dear Dr. Millett,

I have grade 4 arthritis of the left humerus with continual inflammation. I need help to eliminate pain. What can be done to help me?

Thank you,
Anonymous

Arthritis of the shoulder is a common condition that affects millions of adults. The onset of arthritis can start early in adulthood and be the result of years of overuse, or the result of an earlier injury or accident. The pain you are feeling from your arthritis is the number one complaint I get from patients. A very limited mobility and decreased range of motion are also common symptoms. Shoulder replacement surgery is an effective option for many adults.

Depending on the severity of the arthritis of the shoulder and your age and overall health, a total shoulder replacement is an excellent option for patients with severe arthritis in the shoulder and I have performed many hundreds of these with excellent results. Currently, I use the latest technique, which is an anatomical total shoulder replacement that recreates the body’s own structures. Many times however there are options other than joint replacement which preserve the shoulder and alleviate pain. I also specialize in these minimally invasive, arthroscopic, joint-preserving techniques, and you indeed may be a candidate. Microfracture is one technique that can be used in conjunction with other techniques, such as scar tissue release, removal of loose cartilage, and correction of malalignment, to alleviate the pain and stiffness for arthritic shoulders. The CAM procedure (LINK) is another option for young patients who want to avoid a total shoulder replacement and who want to remain active and pain-free.
As you can imagine, there can be many different factors to consider for shoulder injuries such as yours. Furthermore, as you might expect there can be several treatment options and risks with benefits with each type that I would be happy to discuss with you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Millett

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!!!

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What Can be Done for Advanced Arthritis of the Shoulder?

I have Advanced Arthritis and am Seeking Help. What Can be Done for Me?