REVERSE SHOULDER REPLACEMENT
Restore Function.
Restore Independence.
Advanced treatment for rotator cuff tear arthropathy, massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, failed prior surgery, fractures, and complex shoulder dysfunction.
Advanced treatment for arthritis, massive rotator cuff tears, fractures, and failed prior shoulder surgery.
Reverse shoulder replacement is designed for patients with severe shoulder dysfunction when the rotator cuff can no longer adequately stabilize or move the shoulder.
Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy
Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Complex Shoulder Fractures
Failed Prior Shoulder Surgery
How Reverse Shoulder Replacement Works
Reverse shoulder replacement changes the mechanics of the shoulder by placing the ball on the socket side and the socket on the arm side.
This allows the deltoid muscle to compensate for deficient rotator cuff function and restore elevation and overhead use of the arm.
The goal is not simply pain relief. The goal is to restore meaningful shoulder function when the rotator cuff can no longer power the shoulder normally.
This animation demonstrates how reverse shoulder replacement allows the deltoid muscle to restore shoulder function when the rotator cuff is no longer functional.
Modern Recovery Philosophy
Early Motion
- Sling until nerve block wears off
- Sling optional after the first day
- Physical therapy begins during the first week
- Emphasis on preventing stiffness
Activity Progression
- 5-pound lifting restriction for 6 weeks
- Early functional use encouraged
- Return to normal lifting at approximately 6 weeks
- Focus on restoring independence quickly
Recovery Timeline
- First Week: Begin physical therapy and daily activity progression.
- Six Weeks: Lifting restrictions typically lifted.
- Three Months: Most patients achieve approximately 80% of their final result.
- 12–18 Months: Continued gains may occur as swelling and scar tissue resolve.
Expected Outcomes
Pain Relief
Substantial reduction in pain for most patients.
Improved Function
Improved ability to raise the arm and perform daily activities.
Quality Of Life
Improved sleep, independence, and overall shoulder function.