Reverse Shoulder Replacement – When It’s Used

Introduction

If you have shoulder pain that does not get better with medicine, shots, or therapy, surgery may help. One option is called a reverse shoulder replacement. This type of surgery can be life-changing for people who have trouble lifting their arm because of certain shoulder problems.

What Is a Reverse Shoulder Replacement?

In a normal shoulder replacement, the ball of the shoulder is replaced with a ball-shaped implant, and the socket is replaced with a cup.

In a reverse shoulder replacement, the parts are switched. The ball goes where the socket used to be, and the socket goes where the ball used to be. This “reverse” design allows other muscles in your shoulder, like the deltoid, to lift the arm when the rotator cuff is too weak or torn.

When Is It Used?

Doctors may recommend a reverse shoulder replacement if:

• You have a large rotator cuff tear that cannot be fixed.

• You have cuff tear arthropathy, which is arthritis caused by a torn rotator cuff.

• You have already had a shoulder replacement that failed.

• You broke your shoulder and it cannot be fixed with plates or screws.

• You have severe pain and weakness and cannot lift your arm.

Who Is It Right For?

This surgery is usually best for:

• People over the age of 60 with severe shoulder problems

• Patients with rotator cuff tears that cannot be repaired

• Patients who have tried non-surgical treatments without success

It may not be right for very young or very active people, because the implant may wear out over time.

Advantages of Reverse Shoulder Replacement

• Relief from pain

• Ability to lift your arm again

• Improved shoulder strength and motion

• Helps when other surgeries, like rotator cuff repair, are not an option

Risks or Disadvantages

Like any surgery, there are risks. These include:

• Infection

• Dislocation of the new joint

• Nerve injury

• Fracture of the shoulder blade (acromion or scapular spine)

• The implant may loosen or wear out over time

Most patients do very well, but it is important to know about possible problems.

Recovery: What to Expect

You will wear a sling for a few weeks.

• Physical therapy starts soon after surgery.

• Most people use their arm for daily activities in 2–3 months.

• Full recovery can take 6–12 months.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and injections (if the damage is not too severe).

• Standard shoulder replacement (if the rotator cuff is still strong).

• Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (if the tear can be fixed).

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to lift my arm after surgery? 

Most patients can lift their arm much better than before surgery.

How long does the implant last?

Studies show that more than 90% of implants are still functioning well at 10 years.

Can I go back to sports?

Most patients return to low-impact activities like swimming, golf, or walking. Heavy lifting and contact sports are not usually recommended.

Conclusion

Reverse shoulder replacement is a powerful option for patients with severe shoulder pain and weakness, especially when the rotator cuff cannot be repaired.

Call to book an appointment to determine if this procedure is right for you:

646-665-6784

---

About the Author 

C. Lucas Myerson, MD – Orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow surgery.

Disclaimer 

This article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor about your specific condition.

Sources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). OrthoInfo: Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement

• Chelli M et al. Survivorship of Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty According to Indication, Age and Gender. J Clin Med. 2022.

• Galvin JW et al. Outcomes and complications of primary reverse shoulder arthroplasty with minimum of 2 years' follow-up: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2022.