About the Treatment Method
A New Joint for Painless Movement
If the tendons and muscles that lift the patient's shoulder (rotator cuff) are intact, and only the cartilage is corrupted, an "Anatomical Prosthesis" suitable for the natural structure is inserted. However, if the patient's muscles (tendons) to lift their arm into the air are completely torn along with cartilage melting, a "Reverse Prosthesis" is inserted. A reverse prosthesis transfers the task of the muscles to other giant muscles of the shoulder (deltoid), enabling the patient to lift their arm into the air again.
No, the shoulder is not like the knee; it is a much more mobile and soft-tissue-predominant joint. After surgery, the arm is kept in a special sling (Velpeau bandage) for 3-4 weeks for the tissues to heal. However, from the very first day, the fingers, wrist, and elbow are moved.
In shoulder replacement surgeries, physical therapy is as important as the surgery itself. Without the stretching and strengthening exercises to be done for months accompanied by a physiotherapist after the sling is removed, it is impossible for the new prosthesis to be lifted upwards and to achieve full range of motion (for example, combing hair, taking a plate from the shelf).
The information on this page is for general health advice. Please consult specialized physicians for personalized treatment or advice.