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Total Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery

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Shoulder pain can be managed in a variety of ways, and there are numerous procedures that can be performed.

Treatment can vary, and your surgeon will take you through the different methods of managing your particular condition.

TOTAL SHOULDER JOINT REPLACEMENT

A total shoulder joint replacement is a proven way to end the grinding pain and stiffness caused by factors such as advanced arthritis, severe fractures, or long-standing tendon damage. At Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group, our surgeons replace the worn ball-and-socket surfaces with implants, allowing patients to lift, reach, and sleep without constant discomfort. The procedure improves quality of life by restoring movement and independence while preserving as much natural bone and soft tissue as possible.

BENEFITS OF TOTAL SHOULDER JOINT REPLACEMENT

RELIABLE PAIN RELIEF

Replacing the damaged joint surfaces with metal and medical-grade plastic eliminates bone-on-bone grinding, so the stabbing ache of arthritis fades quickly (often within the first week), allowing patients to taper off strong pain medication.

RESTORED RANGE OF MOTION

A resurfaced joint glides smoothly, allowing patients to complete activities they previously struggled with, such as brushing their hair or hanging clothes on a line.

IMPROVED STRENGTH AND FUNCTION

Stable alignment means surrounding muscles can once again generate power efficiently. Guided physiotherapy helps patients regain the strength needed for gardening, golf, swimming and more.

BETTER SLEEP QUALITY

Night pain is one of the most disabling aspects of shoulder disease. After total shoulder joint replacement surgery, patients typically lie on either side and are able to sleep through the night without stacking pillows or waking for tablets.

FASTER RETURN TO DAILY ACTIVITIES

With minimally disruptive techniques and reliable pain control, discharge usually happens the next day, and everyday tasks like dressing, cooking and even short drives are comfortably back on the agenda within weeks.

TOTAL SHOULDER JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY PROCESS

RECOVERY TIMELINE

Nov 09, 2017

Weeks 0-2

Sling worn continuously, patients should perform pendulum and elbow exercises only. Pain is usually well controlled thanks to the nerve block’s head start.

Nov 09, 2017

Weeks 3-6

Supervised physiotherapy introduces passive, then assisted-active elevation and external rotation. Many patients resume desk work or drive an automatic car toward the end of this phase.

Nov 09, 2017

Weeks 7-12

  • Active strengthening begins and light household tasks resume, but lifting anything heavier than a kettle is discouraged.
Nov 09, 2017

Months 4-6

  • Return to non-contact sports such as golf, swimming, yoga, or gentle gym sessions. Your physiotherapist fine-tunes movement patterns to protect the joint and maximise endurance.
Nov 09, 2017

One year

  • Most people reach steady-state strength and flexibility, reporting dramatic improvements in pain, mobility, and overall wellbeing, confirming the value of expert shoulder joint replacement in the Sunshine Coast. 

SURGICAL RISKS

Shoulder joint replacement is regarded as a safe, low-risk operation, but, like all surgeries, it carries potential complications. Common, usually minor, side effects can include swelling around the incision, bruising, mild pain, and temporary numbness or hypersensitivity of the upper arm.

Serious complications are uncommon, but can include:
  • Infection of the wound or deeper tissues around the implant
  • Blood clots in the leg (DVT) or lung (pulmonary embolism)
  • Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, causing weakness, numbness, or bleeding
  • Dislocation or instability of the new joint
  • Severe stiffness (frozen shoulder) or persistent loss of motion
  • Allergic reaction to the anaesthetic or implant materials

FAQS

Adults with end-stage osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or complex fractures that cause daily pain and limit function despite non-surgical care are prime candidates. Adequate bone quality, intact or reparable rotator-cuff tendons, and a commitment to rehabilitation all enhance outcomes.

Most modern shoulder replacements provide durable relief for 15-20 years, and many continue to function well beyond two decades. Longevity depends on factors such as implant design, surgical technique, bone quality, and how rigorously you follow activity and physiotherapy guidelines. With appropriate care and regular check-ups, a single operation can deliver decades of comfortable, reliable shoulder function.

Most everyday activities feel comfortable by three months, and unrestricted use for work or sport is common between six and twelve months. Complete strength and tissue maturation can continue for a full year.

Yes. Structured physiotherapy starts within 24 hours and runs for at least three months. The program progresses from gentle motion to active strengthening and sport-specific drills, ensuring the best possible result from your shoulder joint replacement.

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If you would like to book an appointment with any of our practitioners, please contact us. We can be reached on the details below, or alternatively, leave your details in our form and we’ll get back to you.

If you’re unsure of what service you need, please give our friendly team a call and they can lead you in the right direction

Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital
Suite 12, 3 Doherty Street, Birtinya, QLD, 4575

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