While not as widespread as hip and knee replacements, shoulder-replacement surgery is becoming a common surgery for people as they age and deal with wear-and-tear or injuries.
Fractures and rotator cuff tears are among injuries that can require a joint replacement, and damage from arthritis is another reason.
No matter the cause, there are tell-tale signs when the pain is too much to bear and surgery is a realistic option. Oak Hill Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has details on four signs that your shoulder might need surgery.
- Limiting Daily Activities
If shoulder pain is so severe that it either causes trouble with or doesn’t allow you to complete activities of daily living like showering, going to the bathroom, or getting dressed, surgery should be discussed in order for you to get these freedoms back.
- Keeps You From Sleeping
Another sign that surgery may be required is if your shoulder hurts while you are at rest or lying in bed—especially if the pain is keeping you from being able to sleep.
- Stiffness and Weakness
Serious shoulder injuries will make the arm as a whole feel weaker, and stiffness is a common sign of advanced arthritis.
- Radiating Pain
Pain radiating from your shoulder and down your arm is not a good sign, as that indicates the injury is severe enough that your muscles are being adversely affected.
If you are dealing with one or more of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. He or she may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon to see if shoulder-replacement surgery is the best path for you.
To learn more about Oak Hill Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://oak-hill-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.
