After struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, Jennifer made the decision to undergo shoulder replacement surgery and never looked back. In this testimonial video, she expresses deep gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Dr. Jacobsen. The attentive support she received before, during, and after surgery played a key role in transforming her life.
About Shoulder Replacement at Riverview Health
Shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, removes a joint that has been badly damaged by arthritis, injury or infection and replaces it with an artificial one, so the arm can move and work without pain. Orthopedic surgeons at Riverview Health typically consider the procedure when less invasive options such as physical therapy have stopped helping, when discomfort persists even while the arm is completely still, or when severe pain keeps someone from using the shoulder normally in daily life.
The operation takes place under general anesthesia. Working through an incision in the shoulder, the surgeon clears away worn cartilage and bone and fits new metal or plastic components in their place. Most patients receive a total replacement, though a partial version may be an option when the damage is limited to the head of the humerus. A hospital stay of a couple of days is typical, followed by enrollment in a physical therapy program; many people feel dramatically better within months, but complete healing can take up to a year.
The long-term outlook is encouraging. Patients commonly return to activities they had given up before surgery, and an artificial shoulder joint often continues to perform well 15 years later — especially when its owner exercises regularly, avoids contact sports and heavy lifting, and takes care when pushing up out of bed or a chair. To talk with the orthopedic team about chronic shoulder pain, call 317.565.0505 or submit an appointment request form.