Expert Shoulder Joint Replacement for Arthritis & Chronic Shoulder Pain
Severe shoulder arthritis can make everyday activities such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, getting dressed, and even sleeping uncomfortable. When shoulder pain and stiffness continue despite medications, injections, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments, shoulder joint replacement may provide lasting pain relief and improved function.
Dr. Richard Judd Robins, a dual board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, provides advanced shoulder joint replacement for patients throughout Salt Lake City, Park City, Farmington, South Jordan, and surrounding Utah communities. Using modern surgical techniques and personalized treatment plans, Dr. Robins helps patients reduce pain, restore mobility, and return to a more active and independent lifestyle.
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What is Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Total shoulder replacement surgery is performed to relieve symptoms of severe shoulder pain and disability due to arthritis. In this surgery, the damaged articulating parts of the shoulder joint are removed and replaced with artificial prostheses. Replacement of both the humeral head and the socket is called a total shoulder replacement.
What is Shoulder Anatomy?
The shoulder is a highly movable body joint that allows various movements of the arm. It is a ball and socket joint, where the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) articulates with the socket of the scapula (shoulder blade), which is called the glenoid. The two articulating surfaces of the bones are covered with cartilage, which prevents friction between the moving bones. The cartilage is lubricated by synovial fluid. Tendons and ligaments around the shoulder joint provide strength and stability to the joint.
What is Arthritis?
When the cartilage is damaged, the two bones rub against each other causing pain, swelling and stiffness of the joint. This condition is called arthritis. There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear brought about by old age) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disease) are two forms of arthritis.
What are the Indications for Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Total shoulder joint replacement is a surgery indicated for conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis when medication, injections, physical therapy, and activity changes do not help relieve pain. Your doctor recommends surgery when you have the following symptoms:
- Severe shoulder pain that restricts daily activities
- Moderate to severe pain during rest
- Weakness and/or loss of motion
What Does Preparation for Shoulder Joint Replacement Involve?
To decide whether total shoulder replacement is a good option for you, your doctor will evaluate your condition thoroughly.
Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical examination of your shoulder to assess the extent of mobility and pain. Imaging tests such as X-ray or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may also be performed.
What is the Procedure for Shoulder Joint Replacement?
The surgery is performed under regional or general anesthesia. An incision is made over the affected shoulder and the underlying muscles are separated to expose the shoulder joint. The surgery may be performed as an open surgery, where a large incision is made, or minimally invasive, where small incisions are made to insert specialized surgical tools.
The upper arm bone (humerus) is separated from the glenoid socket of the shoulder bone. The arthritic or damaged humeral head is cut and the humerus bone is hollowed out and filled with cement. A metal ball with a stem is gently press-fit into the humerus.
Next, the arthritic part of the socket is prepared. The plastic glenoid component is fixed in the shoulder bone.
After the artificial components are implanted, the joint capsule is stitched, and the wound is closed.
What Does Postoperative Care for Shoulder Joint Replacement Involve?
After the surgery, medications and antibiotics are prescribed to control pain and prevent infection. Your arm may be secured in a sling or cast. The rehabilitation program includes physical therapy, which is started soon after the surgery and is very important to strengthen and provide mobility to the shoulder. You may be able to perform gentle daily activities two to six weeks after surgery.
What are the Risks and Complications of Shoulder Joint Replacement?
As with any major surgery, there may be potential risks involved:
- Anesthetic complications such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting
- Infection of the wound
- Dislocation, requiring repeat surgery
- Damage to blood vessels, nerves or muscles
- Failure to relieve pain
- Pulmonary embolism
- Wear and tear of the prosthesis
Richard Judd Robins
MD, FAAOS, FAANA Dual Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
Dr. Robins brings more than 26 years of experience in military service, orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, clinical care, and academic leadership. Throughout his distinguished career, he has dedicated himself to caring for active-duty military personnel, athletes, and patients with complex orthopaedic injuries while advancing education, research, and mentorship in orthopaedic sports medicine.
Why Choose Dr. Richard Judd Robins for Shoulder Joint Replacement?
Choosing an experienced orthopaedic surgeon is an important step toward achieving the best possible outcome from shoulder replacement surgery. Successful treatment requires careful evaluation, precise surgical technique, and a comprehensive recovery plan.
Dr. Robins offers:
- Dual board certification in Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
- Fellowship training in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
- Extensive experience treating shoulder arthritis and complex shoulder conditions
- Advanced expertise in shoulder reconstruction and joint replacement procedures
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals
- Comprehensive care from diagnosis through rehabilitation and recovery
- Commitment to helping patients regain shoulder function and improve quality of life
Whether your shoulder pain is caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or degenerative joint damage, Dr. Robins is dedicated to providing individualized care designed to restore comfort and mobility.
Shoulder Joint Replacement FAQs
What is shoulder joint replacement?
Shoulder joint replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged portions of the shoulder joint with artificial components to relieve pain and improve shoulder function.
Who is a candidate for shoulder replacement surgery?
Patients with severe shoulder arthritis, chronic pain, stiffness, weakness, or significant loss of motion that has not improved with conservative treatment may be candidates for shoulder replacement.
How long does shoulder replacement surgery take?
Most shoulder replacement procedures take approximately one to two hours, although surgical time may vary depending on the complexity of the condition and the type of replacement being performed.
How long is recovery after shoulder joint replacement?
Recovery varies among patients, but many individuals can begin gentle daily activities within a few weeks. Full recovery and rehabilitation may continue for several months.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Yes. Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery and helps restore strength, flexibility, range of motion, and overall shoulder function.
How long does a shoulder replacement last?
Modern shoulder implants are designed to provide long-term durability and function. Many shoulder replacements continue to perform well for many years, depending on activity level, overall health, and implant wear.
Schedule a Shoulder Joint Replacement Consultation in Salt Lake City, UT
If shoulder arthritis or chronic shoulder pain is limiting your ability to enjoy daily activities, expert care may help you regain comfort and mobility. Dr. Richard Judd Robins provides advanced shoulder joint replacement and comprehensive shoulder care for patients throughout Salt Lake City, Park City, Farmington, South Jordan, and surrounding Utah communities.
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about your treatment options and whether shoulder joint replacement can help relieve pain, restore movement, and help you return to the activities that matter most.
