Total Shoulder Replacement Specialist

What is a total shoulder replacement?

A total shoulder replacement, or a total shoulder arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where your shoulder joint is replaced by artificial materials that create a new joint. This is done when there’s been an injury or damage done to a shoulder joint, and after more conservative treatments haven’t been successful.

Conditions that may require a total shoulder replacement include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Osteonecrosis
• Rotator cuff injury or disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Severe shoulder fracture

If you require total shoulder replacement, having a team that’s dedicated to your returning to full mobility and activity level like the physical therapists at Empire PT is imperative.

What can I do to prepare for total shoulder replacement?

In order to have the best outcome after your shoulder replacement, your treatment plan may actually begin before you head into surgery. Your orthopedic doctor may include the following in your pre-surgery plan of care:

• Radiological imaging
• Temporarily stop some medications
• Steroid injections
• Home preparations

Your physical therapist helps you prepare your shoulder joint for the best post-surgery rehabilitation possible. Your plan may include exercises and stretches that have a goal of strengthening your shoulder and back muscles, allowing a quicker recovery and return to full mobility after surgery.

How can physical therapy help after my total shoulder replacement?

After your surgery, your physical therapist works closely with you to determine the best rehabilitation plan possible. The goals for physical therapy after shoulder replacement are to safely regain mobility, to achieve previous activity level, and to prevent further injury.

Your physical therapy begins within a couple of days following your surgery, and initially focuses on safely performing daily activities like brushing teeth, dressing, and taking your sling on and off.

Within a few days of surgery, your physical therapy treatment plan includes:

• Range-of-motion exercises
• Strengthening exercises
• Functional training
• Job and activity-specific training

The team at Empire PT is with you every step of the way as you anticipate your total shoulder replacement, and as you recover from it. They make your full recovery their top priority, tailor a treatment plan specific to you and your needs.

If would like to discuss your total shoulder replacement physical therapy plan, call Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC in Manhattan or book your appointment online today.