Surface replacement for shoulder arthritis: Surgery with a CAP, a special type of conservative resurfacing joint replacement that resurfaces the ball of the ball and socket joint, can lessen pain and improve function.
Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D., Winston J. Warme, MD
Last updated Wednesday, January 09, 2008
RehabilitationPhysical therapy Limited use for six weeks after shoulder replacement with a resurfacing (CAP) prosthesis is critical for protection during the early phases of healing. Most individuals find the recovery of comfort and function can be accomplished without formal physical therapy. Rehabilitation options It is often most effective for the individual to carry out her or his own rehabilitation at home. Often no physical therapy is recommended.Can rehabilitation be done at home? In general the rehabilitation is best performed by the individual at home. Occasional visits to the surgeon or therapist may be useful to check the progress and to review the program.Usual response Individuals are almost always satisfied with the increases in comfort and function that are achieved with the rehabilitation program. If the exercises are uncomfortable, difficult, or painful, the individual should contact the surgeon promptly.Risks The rehabilitation program is safe with little risk.Duration of rehabilitation the rehabilitation goals are achieved, the exercise program can be cut back to a minimal level. Returning to ordinary daily activities In general, individuals are able to perform gentle activities of daily living with the operated arm at the side starting four weeks after surgery. Walking with the arm protected is strongly encouraged. Driving should wait until the individual can perform the necessary functions comfortably and confidently. This may take up to six weeks if the surgery has been performed on the right shoulder, because of the increased demands on the right shoulder for shifting gears. With the consent of their surgeon, individuals may be able to return to progressive activities after their surgery. It is important to remember that shoulder arthroplasty does not make the shoulder normal. It will never totally regain full comfort, strength, range of motion or function. Stressful activities and activities with the arm in extreme positions may never be possible after this procedure. Long-term patient limitations Individuals should avoid activities that involve major impact (chopping wood, contact sports, activities with major risk of falls) or heavy loads (lifting of heavy weights, heavy resistance exercises) after this surgery. In this way the risk of re-injury is minimized.Costs The surgeon and therapist should provide the information on the usual cost of the rehabilitation program. The program is quite cost-effective, because it is based heavily on home exercises. Surgery for Shoulder Arthritis at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-7416 to make an appointment.
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