Benefits of Reverse Shoulder Replacement

Thousands of shoulder replacement surgeries are performed in the United States each year, but the number of reverse shoulder replacements is increasing according to a study by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.¹ Reverse shoulder replacement is an option for many patients who are not candidates for traditional shoulder replacement surgery.

In a traditional shoulder replacement, the ball of the humerus is replaced with a metal ball and the glenoid cavity of the shoulder blade (scapula) is replaced with a plastic socket. The shoulder then operates as normal with the support of the rotator cuff. However, if a patient has previously torn their rotator cuff then even after a traditional shoulder replacement, the shoulder may not function properly and may continue to experience pain and limited motion.

Thankfully, with reverse shoulder replacement as an option, more people can experience relief from shoulder pain and a return of shoulder function.

The benefits of reverse shoulder replacement include:

1. An Alternative Muscle - With reverse shoulder replacement, the new ball and socket placement are reversed. This reversal results in the shoulder relying on the large deltoid muscle rather than the rotator cuff for support and motion.
2. A Stabilized Joint - Rotator cuff tears and arthritis weaken the shoulder joint causing loss of motion, instability, and pain. With reverse shoulder replacement, the joint is stabilized and strengthened.
3. An Alternative Option - Reverse Shoulder replacement is a treatment option for those that would not be a candidate for traditional shoulder replacement. Reverse Shoulder Replacement is indicated for those with rotator cuff tear and arthritis, traditional shoulder replacement failure, or consistent dislocations of the shoulder.

The benefits of reverse shoulder replacement are an integral part of successful treatment for those that are not candidates for traditional shoulder replacement. Using an alternative muscle, stabilizing the joint, and providing an alternative option means that more people can experience relief and healing from their shoulder pain.

If you have been told that you are not a candidate for traditional shoulder replacement, don’t give up hope. Talk to Dr. DiPaolo about reverse shoulder replacement and whether it is a viable treatment option for you.

Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly skilled, board certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the latest orthopedic techniques and provides quality, compassionate, state of the art orthopedic care. For all appointments and inquiries, please call (662) 227-7794 or visit our website www.drdipaolo.com.

1. Best MJ, et al. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2020;doi:10.1016/j.jse.2020.08.010.