Shoulder Replacement Surgeon
Are you suffering from shoulder arthritis? If so, you may be a candidate for a shoulder replacement. Shoulder replacement surgery is a viable option for patients suffering from arthritis who have exhausted all non-surgical and more minimally invasive surgical options. Shoulder replacement surgeon, Dr. Mark Getelman provides diagnosis and both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for patients in Los Angeles who have developed shoulder arthritis. Contact Dr. Getelman’s team today!
An Overview on Shoulder Replacement Surgery
(Shoulder Arthroplasty)
A smooth protective layer of cartilage lines the shoulder joint to help protect the bones while in motion and to allow fluid movement. When cartilage begins to wear down from normal wear and tear, following trauma to the joint or with repetitive use, shoulder arthritis may develop. Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition commonly found in the older population that causes pain, swelling and inflammation within the shoulder joint. Shoulder replacement surgery is a viable option for patients suffering from arthritis who have exhausted all non-surgical and more minimally invasive surgical options. Shoulder replacement, otherwise known as shoulder arthroplasty, can allow patients living in the Van Nuys, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks and Los Angeles, California communities to return to the activities they love. Patients who have exhausted all other treatment options and still experience the troublesome symptoms of osteoarthritis are encouraged to contact Dr. Mark Getelman, orthopedic shoulder surgeon, to discuss shoulder replacement surgery.
Shoulder replacement surgery can greatly improve the quality of life for many patients, but the procedure is not recommended for everyone. On average, a shoulder replacement is expected to last between 10-20 years. For this reason, the procedure is recommended for patients over the age of 65 years in most cases. Younger patients suffering from shoulder arthritis are encouraged by Dr. Getelman and his team to consider more minimally invasive joint preserving surgeries before undergoing shoulder replacement.
During a shoulder replacement surgery, the degenerated cartilage and the ends of the bones of the shoulder joint are removed and replaced with metal and plastic components. The components are held in place by a combination of fitting the components tightly in place and at times medical bone cement.
Once the shoulder replacement is completed, the artificial components allow for more pain free, smooth motion of the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Replacement Repair Protocols                                          Â
A physical therapy rehabilitation program is required following shoulder replacement surgery in order for the patient to regain motion, strength and overall function. The initial therapy focuses on gradual restoration of ROM as the soft tissues heal. Â Patients can expect to resume more normal activities within three to four months after the procedure.
To learn more about shoulder replacement, or for more information on shoulder arthritis, please contact the office of Dr. Mark Getelman, orthopedic shoulder surgeon in the Van Nuys, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks and Los Angeles, California area.