Surgery for shoulder arthrosis
If the symptoms of shoulder arthrosis can no longer be reduced conservatively by means of medication, physiotherapy, physical therapy and movement exercises, and if chronic, severe pain and limitations are experienced, shoulder arthrosis can be operated on. The arthroscopic procedure attempts to restore the joint as far as possible. Bony attachments caused by arthrosis are removed, the bursa can be removed and, if necessary, the acromion can be removed slightly to increase the space in the joint.
Another option in cases of severe wear is endoprosthetic joint replacement. In total endoprosthesis (TEP), the head and socket are replaced by an artificial joint. Inverse prostheses can also be used.
In this case the convex joint partner – upper arm becomes concave and the shoulder blade becomes convex. It is also possible to replace only the humeral head, in which case it is called a hemiprosthesis. Which prosthesis is best for the patient depends on the condition of the joint cartilage, accompanying injuries and the age of the patient.
The operation is followed by rehabilitation with subsequent physiotherapy. Shoulder groups and aqua fitness for shoulder patients are also frequently offered. Answers to questions such as: “How long will I be ill afterwards or what are the pros and cons of surgery?” can be found in the article “Physiotherapy for shoulder arthrosis
Aftercare of a surgery
The post-operative treatment of shoulder arthrosis follows a closely staggered therapy plan which may vary slightly depending on the operation performed (e.g. smoothing of the cartilage surfaces or artificial joint replacement). Initially, a phase of immobilization follows in which the affected shoulder must not be actively moved or loaded. Nevertheless, post-operative treatment already begins in this phase, usually the very next day after the operation.
A physiotherapist will passively move the patient’s arm so that the joint does not become sticky or stiff. Mechanical movement in a specially designed splint is also possible. Light movement exercises, which can be performed without stressing the shoulder, also serve to maintain basic mobility and functionality in the first phase. When the joint can finally be actively loaded again, the more demanding part of the post-treatment begins for the patient, during which he or she becomes active and regains the strength, mobility, coordination and stability of the joint through a series of exercises specially designed for them (see above).
