Shoulder joint replacement surgery in Chattanooga

The experienced shoulder surgeons at Parkridge Medical Group can help ease the pain from arthritis and injuries in your shoulders to get you started on the path to healing. From complex rotator cuff tears to total joint replacement, we can help you live pain free by performing shoulder replacement surgery when nonsurgical options are not enough.

For more information, schedule an appointment with one of our shoulder specialists.

Shoulder conditions we treat

While our team aims for a more conservative approach, sometimes surgery is the best choice for optimal healing and recovery. Some of the shoulder conditions we treat include:

  • Instability
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Severe shoulder fractures
  • Tendinopathy
  • Torn rotator cuff resulting in joint arthritis

Shoulder replacement surgeries we offer

Depending on your unique condition, our orthopedic surgeon discusses different techniques for shoulder surgery and chooses the best option for you. Choosing orthopedic surgery is the first step to living without joint pain. Our compassionate, experienced team will walk with you through your entire journey from your first appointment to recovery.

Shoulder replacement

Degenerative arthritis causes cartilage to wear down over time, and it’s the most common reason people need a shoulder replacement. Without this cushioning, your shoulder becomes stiff and painful. Shoulder replacement surgery is a form of joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty. This procedure replaces the damaged parts of your joint with artificial pieces that mirror the natural structure of your shoulder.

Reverse total shoulder replacement

A severe rotator cuff injury can damage your joint structure and wear down the cartilage if you suffer from a severe rotator cuff injury. If your rotator cuff is completely torn and you have developed complex shoulder arthritis, a reverse total shoulder replacement can be a solution.

This procedure takes a different approach to total shoulder replacement so you can use other muscles in your shoulders to move your arm because the rotator cuff no longer functions. This shoulder surgery can help maximize mobility and decrease shoulder pain.

Is shoulder replacement surgery right for me?

If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain due to osteoarthritis or injuries, are middle- or older-aged, then you could be a good candidate for shoulder replacement surgery. You may also benefit from shoulder surgery if you:

  • Are unable to move your arms above your head or have a limited range of motion
  • Experience shoulder pain or stiffness interfering with your daily life
  • Have pain that wakes you up during the night

Patients who have tried anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy or cortisol injections typically choose surgery as a last resort for relief.

What can I expect from shoulder replacement surgery?

Recovery usually involves pain medication and physical therapy four to six weeks after surgery. It is typical to see most patients feeling fully recovered in three months. Your doctor will go over your recovery plan in detail prior to your surgery.