Experiences of shoulder replacement

[HerRoyalNotness]

can anyone share their experience of a shoulder replacement with me please? Will be ball and socket replacement.

trying to be short; had a fall 3yrs ago, and had a labrum repair and muscle transfer to fill a dent in my humerus. 3 years on, has been 24/7 pain since day 1, limited mobility. Recent MRI shows fast progressing arthritis (also have RA, not sure if that is what’s caused the shoulder issue or just post trauma arthritis) and recommended to have it replaced.

What has been your experience with the surgery and recovery? How much would you say it improved your shoulder situation? Any adverse outcomes I should consider?

Thanks!

Not had one myself but have come across people who have had one-

Firstly, they say once recovered the pain is significantly better, however they never fully recover the ability to lift the arm fully up in the air and have needed to adapt e.g washing hair one handed , only one hand can reach high into cupboards. For many who had got the stage of needing a replacement they said there was already some limitations due to the pain and sometimes worn/ damaged muscle tendons.

If there is a RA physio in the team I would ask them, as they would have more of an idea of movement and function afterwards ( the surgeons tend to concentrate on pain and surgical risks). If not- ask the surgeons about active movement expected after surgery- especially if you have already had a muscle transfer.

Found this leaflet below which outlines what it involves - especially as the arm will have some restrictions in the post operative period. Hope that helps.

https://www.wsh.nhs.uk/CMS-Documents/Patient-leaflets/TraumaandOrthopaedics/5055-7Shoulderreplacements.pdf

Thanks @GorraSoreKnee that’s very helpful. I already can’t reach high or wash hair or scratch my back, I’m hoping it improves a bit. Surgeon said the muscles look fine. I will add a few questions to my list based on your post. Thanks again!