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Living with constant shoulder pain or stiffness can quietly take over daily life. Simple tasks like dressing, reaching overhead, sleeping comfortably, or enjoying sports may become frustrating or impossible.
The most effective daily shoulder pain treatment options include activity modification, physical therapy, posture correction, targeted exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and injections when needed. Most patients improve without surgery when treatment is started early.
Many patients who consult Dr. Gerardo Mangino, orthopedic surgeon in Cabo San Lucas, arrived after months or years of trying medications, injections, and physical therapy with limited relief. For these individuals, understanding whether surgery is the right next step is essential.
This shoulder replacement surgery overview is designed to clearly explain what the procedure involves, who may benefit, what recovery looks like, and how modern techniques can restore comfort and mobility.
With expert, compassionate care and personalized guidance, shoulder replacement can be a life-changing solution for patients seeking lasting pain relief and renewed function.
Understanding Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery is an orthopedic procedure that replaces damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components, known as implants or prostheses. The primary goal is to reduce chronic pain, improve range of motion, and restore functional use of the arm when conservative treatments are no longer effective.
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head and the glenoid socket of the shoulder blade. When cartilage wears away or the joint structure is damaged, movement becomes painful and limited. Shoulder replacement surgery recreates smooth joint surfaces so the shoulder can move more freely and with less discomfort.
Who Is a Candidate for Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Not every shoulder problem requires surgery. Candidates are typically patients whose symptoms significantly affect quality of life despite non-surgical care. Surgeons like Dr. Mangino carefully evaluate each patient’s condition, goals, and overall health before recommending joint replacement.
Shoulder Arthritis and Degenerative Conditions
The most common reason for shoulder replacement is advanced arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes gradual cartilage breakdown, leading to bone-on-bone friction, pain, stiffness, and loss of motion. Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can damage the joint more aggressively, while post-traumatic arthritis may develop years after a fracture or injury. When pain persists at rest, during sleep, or with simple activities, replacement may be the most effective option.
Rotator Cuff Tears and Cuff Tear Arthropathy
Large or long-standing rotator cuff tears can lead to a complex condition known as cuff tear arthropathy. Patients often struggle to lift their arm or perform overhead activities. If the rotator cuff cannot be repaired, reverse shoulder replacement may allow the deltoid muscle to compensate and restore arm elevation.
Fractures and Traumatic Injuries
Severe shoulder fractures, particularly in older adults, may be too complex to repair with plates and screws. In these cases, partial or total shoulder replacement can provide better pain relief and faster functional recovery. Replacement may also be recommended when previous fracture surgeries have failed.
Additional Factors in Patient Selection
Candidates must be healthy enough to tolerate surgery and rehabilitation. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans help determine bone quality, tendon integrity, and implant choice. Smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions, or active infection may delay or prevent surgery.
Types of Shoulder Replacement Procedures
A key part of this shoulder replacement surgery overview is understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all procedure. The type of replacement depends on anatomy, tendon health, and underlying disease.
Anatomic Total Shoulder Replacement
Anatomic total shoulder replacement mimics the natural structure of the joint. A metal ball replaces the humeral head, and a plastic socket lines the glenoid. This option works best when the rotator cuff tendons are intact and functioning properly. Patients often achieve excellent pain relief and improved motion.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
In reverse shoulder replacement, the ball and socket positions are switched. This design allows the deltoid muscle to lift the arm instead of the rotator cuff. It is especially effective for irreparable rotator cuff tears, complex fractures, and revision surgeries. Reverse replacement has expanded treatment options for patients who were once considered poor candidates for surgery.
Partial Shoulder Replacement and Resurfacing
Partial shoulder replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, replaces only the humeral head. It may be used for certain fractures or when the socket remains healthy. Resurfacing procedures preserve more bone and may be considered in younger, active patients with limited joint damage.
The Surgical Process and Hospital Experience
Understanding what happens before, during, and immediately after surgery helps patients feel more confident and prepared.
Preoperative Preparation and Anesthesia
Before surgery, patients undergo a detailed medical evaluation. Imaging studies are reviewed, medications adjusted, and the surgical plan confirmed. Most procedures use general anesthesia combined with a regional nerve block, which helps control pain during and after surgery.
How Shoulder Replacement Surgery Is Performed
The surgeon makes an incision to access the joint, removes damaged bone and cartilage, and prepares the surfaces for the implant. Trial components are used to ensure proper alignment, stability, and range of motion before final placement. The incision is closed carefully, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Immediate Postoperative Care
After surgery, patients are monitored in recovery while pain control is optimized. Most patients wear a sling to protect the shoulder and limit movement. Many are able to go home the same day, while others may stay overnight for observation. Clear instructions are provided regarding wound care, medications, and activity restrictions.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Shoulder Replacement
Recovery is a gradual process that requires commitment to rehabilitation and follow-up care.
Physical Therapy and Healing Timeline
Physical therapy usually begins shortly after surgery with gentle, guided movements to prevent stiffness. Over the next several weeks, therapy progresses to active motion and strengthening. Many patients resume light daily activities within three months, while full recovery may take six to twelve months.
Pain Management and Activity Guidelines
Pain is managed with a combination of medications, ice, and gradual activity progression. Heavy lifting, sudden movements, and high-impact activities are restricted during early healing. Following surgeon and therapist guidance is essential to protect the implant and optimize results.
Long-Term Outcomes and Implant Longevity
Most patients experience significant pain reduction and improved function. While a replaced shoulder may not feel exactly like a natural joint, it often allows comfortable performance of daily activities and recreational pursuits. Modern implants are designed to last many years, especially when patients follow activity recommendations.
General considerations
As with any surgery, shoulder replacement carries risks. These include infection, dislocation, implant loosening, nerve injury, and blood clots. Choosing an experienced orthopedic surgeon and adhering to postoperative instructions significantly reduces these risks. Most complications are uncommon and manageable when identified early.
Why Expertise and Personalized Care Matter
For patients considering surgery, choosing the right surgeon is as important as the procedure itself. Dr. Gerardo Mangino, brings international training, advanced surgical techniques, and a patient-centered approach to orthopedic care in Los Cabos. His practice emphasizes clear communication, bilingual support, shorter wait times, and individualized treatment plans, making high-quality shoulder care accessible to both local and international patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Can shoulder replacement surgery restore full range of motion?
Most patients experience significant improvement in range of motion and daily function after shoulder replacement surgery. While the joint may not feel exactly like a natural shoulder, many people regain the ability to perform everyday activities with much less pain and better mobility after completing physical therapy.
How long does it take to fully recover from shoulder replacement surgery?
Initial healing occurs within six to twelve weeks, but full recovery of strength and function often takes six to twelve months.
Is shoulder replacement surgery painful?
Pain is expected early but is usually well controlled with modern anesthesia, nerve blocks, and medications. Most patients report pain improvement within weeks.
How long do shoulder replacement implants last?
With proper care, many shoulder implants last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on activity level and implant type.
Regaining Comfort, Strength, and Confidence
For patients struggling with ongoing shoulder pain and loss of function, shoulder replacement surgery can offer a reliable path back to an active, fulfilling life. This shoulder replacement surgery overview highlights how modern techniques, careful patient selection, and structured rehabilitation work together to deliver lasting results.
Under the care of Dr. Gerardo Mangino, MD, patients benefit from expert orthopedic knowledge, compassionate guidance, and personalized treatment in Cabo San Lucas. Whether seeking pain relief, improved mobility, or a second opinion, shoulder replacement may be the next step toward living pain-free and moving with confidence again.
